INSIDER'S PICK: 2021 AZ. AG. ZACCAGNINI VERDICCHIO DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO $15.99

Verdicchio has long been the major white grape of note in the Marches region of Italy (the 'calf muscle' of the Italian boot), more known for bulk production over excellence. In recent decades there has been a lot more work done to improve the quality in both the vineyards (better clones, better yield control) and the winery to start developing distinctive, artisan quality white wines that garner the same praise as many of the best regions in Italy. Through all this there has developed two distinct regions for Vernaccia: Matelica in the warmer inland highlands, which makes a richer and rounder style, and Castelli di Jesi nearer the coastline, which makes a brisker and racier wine. This recently arrived producer makes one of the best values we have seen from the Jesi region, giving us visions of the seashell brininess and minerality of a Muscadet from France.The first aromas are all oyster shells and Meyer lemons that build to more Mediterranean citrus as it opens up, with a bright and round body on the palate that brings some extra fruit to the seawater-y notes on the finish. Another great wine to add to your table for seafood dishes, from fish fillets to shrimp scampi or linguini and clams. 

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