The day Ondine de la Feld Aymerich took over her grandparents’ winery in 2014, the conversion to organic farming began. Today, Tenuta di Tavignano takes eco-friendly practices into account in nearly everything they do in the vineyard, winery, and guest house. With respect to farming, it certainly helps that the Marche has an elegantly balanced climate, with a daily rhythm of cooling wind blowing alternately uphill from the sea and downhill from the mountains. The ribs of the Apennine Mountains give vine growers their choice of elevation and aspect for vineyards. At Tavignano, red grapes are planted on the lower slopes closer to the sea, while the white grapes are on higher, steeper slopes, to better catch the freshness and spice at the core of great Verdicchio. This one features aromas of lemon balm, apple, lime, snap pea, white pepper, and just a hint of garlic scape. The palate is medium weight, with flavors of apple and lemon and persistent white pepper that shines in the glow of vibrant acidity and finishes with a distinct snap. Fresh seafood dishes come to mind first, but Verdicchio is famously versatile.