IANAI, Marche, Italy
IANAI, Marche, Italy
In the heart of Italy’s Marche region, nestled within the serene valley of Matelica, lies IANAI—a winery where passion for viticulture intertwines with a profound respect for history and sustainability. Founded by Fabrizio Sepe, IANAI stands as a testament to the belief that old vines are unparalleled storytellers of their terroir.
The estate spans 23 hectares at an elevation of 650 meters above sea level, a mosaic of ecosystems comprising ancient olive groves, dense woodlands, and open pastures. Amidst this diverse landscape, 5.5 hectares are dedicated to vineyards, each parcel bearing the weight of over half a century’s growth. In 2024, an additional 2 hectares were planted, ensuring the continuation of this rich legacy.
IANAI’s viticultural heritage is embodied in three distinct historic vineyards:
• Vocabolo Balzani Vineyard: Covering 3.5 hectares with vines aged around 60 years, this plot is predominantly planted with Verdicchio (90%) and a touch of Biancame (10%). Facing east at altitudes between 380 and 400 meters near Monte San Vicino, it yields modest quantities—averaging 33 quintals per hectare in 2024. Despite the low yield, the grapes are rich in aromatic compounds and maintain high acidity, even in challenging vintages, forming the backbone of IANAI’s Verdicchio di Matelica v.v.
• Matelica - San Venanzo Vineyard: A 0.5-hectare plot with 50-year-old vines, consisting of 90% Verdicchio, 5% Biancame, and 5% Malvasia. Situated on the western side of the valley near Matelica’s historic center, it benefits from full eastern exposure. The slightly looser clay-limestone soil, enriched with iron, imparts pronounced minerality and salinity to the wine.
• Metelica - Colferraio Vineyard: Spanning 1.5 hectares with 50-year-old vines, this vineyard comprises 80% Verdicchio, 15% Biancame, and 5% Malvasia. Located at the northern entrance of the valley at elevations of 400 to 420 meters with southern exposure, its soil boasts higher organic content. In favorable, cooler years, it produces grapes with vibrant acidity and complex aromatic profiles.
The estate’s total production hovers around 15,000 bottles annually, all stemming from a singular wine crafted through meticulous selection of the finest grapes from these historic vineyards. This approach underscores IANAI’s commitment to showcasing the multifaceted nature of Matelica’s terroir.
“Managing these fragmented, aged vineyards presents challenges, yet it offers the unique advantage of capturing diverse expressions of Matelica’s terroir. Each year, these venerable vines yield grapes with subtle nuances that truly reflect the region’s complexity. The renowned longevity of Matelica wines is further enhanced by working with old vines, which uniquely balance high acidity and freshness with aromatic depth, resulting in wines that are both complex and exceptionally drinkable. This harmonious equilibrium between freshness and depth is a quality seldom found in younger counterparts,” comments Fabrizio Sepe.
Beyond their oenological significance, these vineyards serve as living repositories of genetic diversity. Each is a polyclonal ensemble, harboring rare clones no longer found elsewhere. Preserving this genetic heritage is paramount, bridging Matelica’s storied past with its future in viticulture.
At IANAI, the philosophy is straightforward: old vines possess an unparalleled ability to narrate the story of their land. By centering the winery’s identity around these ancient vineyards and dedicating efforts to a single, expressive wine, IANAI honors and amplifies the authentic voice of Matelica’s terroir.
Elisabetta and Riccardo