Born in 2000 with the idea of enhancing the characteristics of Merlot in Matelica, as we consider it an ideal habitat for this grape variety. It is a structured wine but at the same time has excellent drinkability and elegance. To date, with the 2015 vintage, we have produced it only in 6 vintages, those in which we considered it a product of excellent quality. It is the only wine of the company that matures in new barriques.

Fun fact: the name Ardiale is dedicated to Umberto's daughter, GagliArdi Alessandra.

Denomination:	MARCHE MERLOT IGT
Production area:	Matelica (Mc), Marche region, Italy
Type:	Red
Grape:	100% Merlot
Vineyard description:	South exposure; altitude 490 m above sea level; area 1 Ha; 3,400 vines/Ha, planting layout 2.60x0.80
Grape yield per hectare (quintals):	54 q/Ha (1.5 kg of grapes per plant)
Year of planting:	1960
Training system:	Spurred cordon
Soil:	Medium texture tending to sandy with sandstone
Harvest:	Manual, early September
Vinification:	Red vinification with skins for an average duration of about 15 days in cement
Maturation:	2 years in cement tanks and 8/10 months in barrique
Aging:	4 months in bottle
Color:	Intense ruby red
Aroma:	Small red fruits (berries) and a light spicy note
Flavor:	Rich taste with enveloping tannins, prelude to a long aging
Alcohol content:	14.5%
Recommended serving temperature (°C):	16-18°