The Umani Ronchi Plenio Riserva 2020 is a Verdicchio wine that stands as a testament to fullness, complexity, and structure—qualities encapsulated in its name, derived from the Latin “Plenum.” Sourced from vineyards situated in the higher altitudes near the idyllic village of Cupramontana, this wine is crafted to be extraordinary. The vineyards, planted in the early ’90s, are located 250-350 meters above sea level and feature deep clay loam soil, which is particularly conducive to producing high-quality wines. The grapes are hand-harvested, usually between the end of September and the first ten days of October, to capture the perfect balance of acidity and sugar content.
The vinification process for Plenio Riserva is both unique and meticulous. After a gentle pressing, the prime must is rapidly cooled and undergoes static decantation. Fermentation is partly conducted in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, accounting for 60% of the process, while the remaining 40% takes place in 5000-liter oak casks. Intriguingly, about 10-15% of the wine also experiences malolactic fermentation. The aging process spans about 12 months, during which the wine remains in contact with its own fermentation yeasts. This is followed by an additional 6 months of bottle aging, enhancing Plenio’s rich perfumes and unique aromas.
What sets Plenio Riserva apart is its lingering persistence and aromatic richness, which combine with the elegance of great white wines to make it truly exceptional. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine enthusiast, this wine offers an experience of layered flavors and textures that are both captivating and memorable.
The Umani Ronchi winery, the creators of Plenio Riserva, has a storied history that spans over six decades. Founded by Gino Umani Ronchi, the winery was later acquired by Roberto Bianchi and his son-in-law Massimo Bernetti. Massimo’s leadership was instrumental in expanding the winery’s market share abroad and increasing production. His son, Michele Bernetti, later joined the winery, infusing it with fresh perspectives and a commitment to innovation.
Today, under Michele Bernetti’s stewardship, Umani Ronchi continues to evolve as a global brand. The winery has garnered several prestigious awards and has become a symbol of Italian excellence in the wine industry. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their organic conversion and certification of all their vineyards. Umani Ronchi’s membership in the Istituto del Vino di Qualità – Grandi Marchi further solidifies its standing, bringing it into an elite group of Italy’s most important wine families