READ · COMPARE · EXPLAIN
Verdicchio: differences between the valleys of Jesi and Matelica
Compare the hillsides on the Jesi side with Matelica, which is surrounded by mountains. By matching location, vintage, and vinification, consider how much of the difference can be explained by the land.
Questions for this course
Even for white wines from Marche, how do the influences of the sea and mountains differ?
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To explanation task notes ↓Verdicchio / Learning from varieties
Update date: 2026-09-23
Hills facing the sea and inland valleys
The principal production areas for Verdicchio are Castelli di Jesi and Matelica. In Staffolo, on the Jesi side, cold mountain air and winds from the Adriatic are mentioned. In the Matelica valley, which runs north–south, Monte San Vicino to the east blocks maritime influences. Even within white wines from the same region, plotting relative positions to the sea and mountains on a map helps reveal vineyard differences.
Matelica’s day-night temperature variation
The Matelica protection association describes a continental climate with cold winters, hot summers, and stark differences between day and night temperatures. Being inland does not mean it is simply cold all year round. To understand grape ripening, distinguish between daytime warmth and nighttime coolness. When comparing the impression of the wine's acidity, it is also helpful to have information about the vintage and harvest time as well as the region’s name.
Region names and the “Riserva” indication
The protection association introduces DOC for both Jesi and Matelica, and DOCG Riserva for each. When comparing two bottles, record not just the grape variety but the full appellation name and the vintage. If one is a young DOC and the other an aged Riserva, you are comparing both place and time. To consider regional effects, first align the conditions of what you are comparing as much as possible.
What to align and what to compare.
Topography
- Conditions to standardize
- White grapes of Marche
- Conditions for comparison.
- Hills exposed to the sea's influence and inland valleys
- Additional points to confirm
- Position of Mountains and Direction of Valleys
Climate
- Conditions to standardize
- Temperature required for ripening
- Conditions for comparison.
- Season and diurnal temperature variation
- Additional points to confirm
- Do not simply categorize inland areas as cold.
Bottle
- Conditions to standardize
- Verdicchio-based
- Conditions for comparison.
- Appellation, vintage, maturation.
- Additional points to confirm
- Do not change location and time simultaneously.
Order of reading and key points to consider in each article
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READ · HYPOTHESIZE · RECONSIDER
Reading Verdicchio materials: differences between the valleys of Jesi and Matelica
From comparative imaginary references, look for factors besides land that might influence the results.
This is a hypothetical example for learning. It does not reproduce the specifications of any specific product.
| Item | A | B |
|---|---|---|
| Regions | Castelli di Jesi | Matelica |
| Raw material | 100% Verdicchio | 100% Verdicchio |
| Vintage year | 2024 | 2021 |
| Container / maturation | Stainless steel for 6 months | After 18 months in wood barrels, bottle aging. |
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Read the explanation for each question
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What are the standardized conditions?
Both are 100% Verdicchio, but differ in harvest year and maturation method. Choosing the same variety is a starting point for comparison, but it does not mean all conditions are the same. The remaining fields of the table will also be checked.
Can you explain all the differences as regional distinctions?
A and B differ in location as well as harvest year, vessel, and aging period. Even if there is a perceived difference in taste, it is not possible to assign that difference to just one condition. If considering the effect of terroir, it is necessary to add a comparison where the other conditions are more similar.
Which of the following is appropriate as the next comparison?
By bringing vintages and production methods closer together, you can reduce the number of simultaneously changing conditions in your comparison. Nevertheless, differences in vineyards and producers will remain, so you cannot draw conclusions about the entire region from a single comparison. Confirm with multiple examples while recording the comparison conditions.
Practice exercises in comparison
From comparative imaginary references, look for factors besides land that might influence the results.
Read examples of organizing comparisons
| Conditions for Comparison | The hillsides on the Jesi side | Matelica |
|---|---|---|
| Examples of Topography | Staffolo and the valley of the Esino River | A north-south valley surrounded by mountains |
| Clues to understanding climate | Mountain chill and sea breezes | Continental climate and diurnal temperature variation |
| Conditions to Standardize When Comparing | Vintage, blend, winemaking | Vintage, blend, winemaking |
This is an organized study tool based on the designated articles for this course. You can check specific facts and sources in each article.
Explain in your own words
List the conditions that are changed simultaneously in comparing A and B, and suggest the next two bottle conditions to select to confirm regional differences.
Check after writing
- Did you notice differences in vintage and aging apart from the region?
- Did you specifically propose the conditions to be compared?
- Are you making judgments about taste or quality solely from the materials?
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