Matelica lies in the Upper Esino Valley, in an inland landscape sheltered by the Apennine hills, where the valley runs in an unusual north-south direction. This topography limits the influence of the sea and favours a continental climate, characterised by cool winters, sunny summers and marked temperature variations between day and night. The constant breeze and the slow ripening of the grapes help to preserve their aromas, acidity and finesse.
The area forms part of the Camerte Syncline, a geological structure characterised by hills and valley floor areas, with soils predominantly limestone, clay and marl, often well-drained and capable of supporting balanced hillside viticulture. The flagship grape variety is Verdicchio, which forms the basis of the Verdicchio di Matelica appellation wines in their still, sparkling and passito styles, as well as the Riserva variant. In the glass, it displays a distinct character, characterised by freshness, structure, savouriness and progressive complexity, with aromas that may evoke white flowers, citrus fruits, aromatic herbs and almonds.
Alongside Verdicchio, red grape varieties such as Sangiovese, Merlot and Ciliegiolo are also cultivated, used in the production of local wines. The local winemaking tradition has its roots in antiquity and continues today through meticulous winemaking practices, from selective harvesting to the optimal utilisation of the various vineyard plots.
