2019 Verdicchio di Matelica Vertis

Ever since my introduction to the first released 2019s from Borgo Paglianetto last September, I’ve been looking forward to tasting the bigger wines from the vintage. Enologist Aroldo Bellelli and Winemaker Angelo Carucci have been hard at work to refine the practices in the vineyards and cellars. The winery now tends to 27 hectares of vines, 80% of which are Verdicchio, all from around the town of Matelica. The vineyards are located between 320 to 380 meters above sea level, and in varying expositions from south to west to north, planted on clay soils rich in chalky limestone. After a short stint of working through biodynamic principles, the winery recently decided to go back to organic, yet with a focus on reducing the use of copper and sulfur. In 2019, acidity levels were down due to the dry conditions during harvest, the combination of Matelica’s high elevations and inherent minerality, yet the Borgo Paglianetto style of purity turned out some truly irresistible wines. The Verdicchio di Matelica Vertis, made in top vintages, did not disappoint in 2019. Verdis is a selection from their oldest vineyard parcel in Braccano, named Ajalunga. Now we just need to wait for the release of the 2019 Jera to see if the stars have truly aligned.