2021 Pievalta San Paolo Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva 750 ml

Verdicchio from Marche’s prestigious Castelli di Jesi DOC has been called the “White Barolo”: It’s layered, profoundly aromatic, and cellarworthy, a true noble in the court of Italian viticulture.

Pievalta’s 2021 San Paolo Castelli di Jesi Riserva is the grandest wine in that stately category. With 96 points from Italy denizen James Suckling, it’s more than the most decorated Castelli di Jesi of the vintage. It also boasts the same score as $200+ white wines from Italian icons like Gaja and Bibi Graetz. 

Nestled in the Ancona province of Italy’s Marche region—Marche is the ancestral home of California’s Mondavi family—Pievalta is a monument to the area’s tradition and innovation. The organic and biodynamic winery was established in 2003 by the Barone Pizzini group, and the wines they’re putting out now are making the Marche must-stop on the world wine map.

The Pievalta estate's 26 hectares occupy two distinct terroirs: the clay-limestone Maiolati Spontini and the elevated (200–300M) clay-sandstone sandy soils of San Paolo. Since 2005, the vineyards have been guided by lunar cycles and nourished by natural composts and cover crops, and all of Pievalta’s wines since 2008 have been certified biodynamic. 

Nurturing the land with respect and patience has rewarded Pievalta with wines of extraordinary character and soul. This San Paolo Riserva is the estate’s flagship, a 100% Verdicchio that is fermented for 15 days in stainless steel, then aged 26 months on the lees. The result is a vibrant and textured white offering flavors of white peach, citrus pith, marzipan, and a hint of honeyed chamomile. The taut mineral backbone and refreshing acidity make this perfect for aging, or to accompany fritto misto or anything from the sea.