Verdicchio: A Comprehensive Guide

Pronunciation: vur-DEE-kee-oh

Verdicchio is a white wine grape from Italy. It’s used both in blends and as a single varietal wine. Known for its versatility, Verdicchio produces a crisp, medium-bodied dry white wine with notes of green apple, citrus, and almond.

What Kind of Wine is Verdicchio?

Verdicchio is a medium-bodied white wine with a balanced acidity, with medium alcohol content. It often falls between Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay in terms of style.

Where Does Verdicchio Wine Come From?

Verdicchio, a grape variety native to the Marche region in Italy, has deep roots in the country’s winemaking traditions. Depending on the specific region, Verdicchio plays a key role in blends or stands alone as the primary varietal. The main Verdicchio regions include the Marche and Umbria.

Verdicchio in the Marche

In the Marche region, Verdicchio thrives in the diverse terroir, producing wines with distinct characteristics. Notable Verdicchio appellations include Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica.

Verdicchio in Umbria

Umbria, known for its picturesque landscapes, also cultivates Verdicchio. The grape contributes to the production of high-quality white wines, adding to the region’s viticultural richness.

Helpful Wine Buying Tip: Look for Verdicchio labels from Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica for an authentic experience of this grape’s expression.

Other Notable Verdicchio Growing Regions

Beyond Italy, Verdicchio has gained recognition in various wine regions. In Napa Valley, some white wine blends labeled as Pinot Grigio may include a small proportion of Verdicchio. Verdicchio is also making its mark in Argentina, Australia, South Africa, Canada, and New Zealand.

Is Verdicchio an Aromatic Grape?

Verdicchio exhibits a refreshing aromatic profile with notes of green apple, citrus, and almond. Its crispness makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate aromatic white wines.

Fun Wine Fact: Did you know that Verdicchio is often considered the flagship white grape of the Marche region in Italy? Its expressive nature contributes to the region’s diverse wine offerings.

What Does Verdicchio Taste Like?

Verdicchio displays a wide range of flavors, adapting to diverse climates. In cooler regions, expect crisp acidity and vibrant citrus notes, while warmer climates yield richer, fuller-bodied expressions with hints of almond and ripe fruit.

Is Verdicchio a Heavy Wine?

Verdicchio can range from light to medium-bodied, with most wines falling into the medium-bodied category. Wines with higher alcohol content (above 13.5% ABV) may present a fuller and more rounded palate.

How to Serve Verdicchio Wine

Temperature

Serve Verdicchio well-chilled, around 45-50°F (7-10°C), enhancing its crispness and preserving its vibrant aromas.

Glassware

Opt for a standard white wine glass with a slightly tapered rim to concentrate the fresh aromas towards the nose.

Aging Potential

Verdicchio is best enjoyed young to appreciate its lively acidity and freshness. However, some well-structured Verdicchio wines can age gracefully for 3-5 years.

Verdicchio Synonyms

Known by various names thanks to its extensive history as a white wine grape. Boschera bianca, Giallo, Maceratese, Maggiore, Marchigiano, Mazzanico, Niuivres, Peloso, Peverella, Peverello, Peverenda, Peverise bianco, Pfeffer, Pfeffertraube, Terbiana, Torbiana, Trebbiano di Lugana, Trebbiano di Soave, Trebbiano verde, Trebbiano Veronese, Turbiana, Turbiana Moscato, Turbiano, Turviana, Uva Aminea, Uva Marana, Verdello duro persico, Verdicchio bianco, Verdicchio Dolce, Verdicchio Doratel, Verdicchio Doratello, Verdicchio Giallo, Verdicchio Marchigiano, Verdicchio Marino, Verdicchio Peloso, Verdicchio Scroccarello, Verdicchio Seroccarello, Verdicchio Straccione, Verdicchio Stretto, Verdicchio Verdaro, Verdicchio verde, Verdicchio Verzaro, Verdicchio Verzello, Verdone, Verzaro and Verzello verde

Fun Wine Fact: Verdicchio has been cultivated in the Marche region since the 14th century, showcasing its longstanding history.

Verdicchio Food Pairing Suggestions

Verdicchio’s versatility makes it a perfect match for an array of dishes. Pair it with seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes to complement its bright acidity.

Quick Tips: Verdicchio Food Pairing

• Grilled lemon herb chicken
• Shrimp scampi with fresh herbs
• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes

Helpful Tip: Here’s a list of wines that pair well with goat cheese (Verdicchio isn’t on the list, but it should be!)

Verdicchio vs. Other Varietals

While Verdicchio shares some characteristics with other white wines, its distinctive profile sets it apart. It offers a crisp acidity similar to Sauvignon Blanc but with a unique almond note, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a refreshing white wine with character.

Fun Wine Fact: As recently as the mid-1980s, Verdicchio was the 15th most widely planted grape in the world, surpassing Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay in popularity. Wow!

Notable Verdicchio Producers and Bottles to Try

When exploring Verdicchio, seek out wineries dedicated to showcasing the true potential of this white grape. Some notable producers include:

• Villa Bucci (Marche, Italy)
• Bisci (Matelica, Italy)
• Umani Ronchi (Marche, Italy)

Check out this overview of Umani Ronchi wines. It gives you a lovely sense of place for Italy’s Verdicchio wines.

Fun Wine Fact: Verdicchio is also used to make a traditional sparkling wine called “Verdicchio Spumante” in the Marche region.

Sustainable Practices in Verdicchio Vineyards

Today, sustainable viticulture plays a crucial role in Verdicchio production. Many vineyard growers adopt organic and biodynamic practices, emphasizing environmental stewardship and preserving the distinct terroir of the Marche region.

Final Thoughts – Verdicchio as Must-Try White Wine Varietal

With its vibrant acidity, diverse flavors, and potential for aging, Verdicchio deserves a place among the must-try white wine varietals.

Here are three key takeaways to remember:

1. Distinctive Flavor Profile: Verdicchio offers a crisp palate with notes of green apple, citrus, and almond, making it a versatile and refreshing white wine.
2. Food-Friendly: Verdicchio pairs well with a variety of dishes, from seafood to salads, enhancing the dining experience with its bright acidity.
3. Regional Heritage: Verdicchio reflects the rich winemaking tradition of the Marche region, showcasing its unique terroir and history.

Thirsty for More?

Check out this post setting up a blind wine tasting at home.

Here’s a great post on sweet white wines worth trying.

And here’s how to tell if your white wine has gone bad.