The climate was ideal after “veraison” (the beginning of the ripening phase of grapes). Springtime was very rainy and the summer was dry, cool and less sunny than 2003. Consequently the vines had a good reservoir of water. Especially in the Verdicchio appellation, vineyard management was very important as Verdicchio has a tight cluster (i.e. removal of excess foliage to improve ventilation and avoid rot – green harvest to control production). All interviewed producers were satisfied with results.

Matelica (Verdicchio di Matelica): “…..At Bisci the harvest was good, there were no problems with rot, due to correct vineyard management and the southern exposure of the vineyards” (Aroldo Belelli consulting oenologist of Azienda Agraria Bisci) Harvest started at the end of September with Verdicchio and finished in mid-October with the red varietals. The last to be picked was Cabernet Sauvignon.

Numana (Rosso Conero): “….2004 was a very good harvest…….2004 will give balanced wines, with good structure and an excellent colour” ( Antonio Terni owner of Fattoria Le Terrazze) Harvest started on the 10t h of September and was finished on the 22n d of October. The first varietals to be picked were Chardonnay and Merlot followed by the other red varietals.