Vernaccia Nera

Vernaccia Nera is a rare and distinctive red grape variety native to Marche, particularly cultivated around Serrapetrona, in the province of Macerata. Despite its historical significance, Vernaccia Nera is grown in very limited quantities today, with just 45 hectares under vine, making it a true rarity from both ampelographic and oenological perspectives.

The name “Vernaccia” likely derives from the Latin word ver, meaning spring, or from vitis vernacula, meaning “local vine,” as referenced by the Roman writer Columella in De Re Rustica. However, some scholars suggest a more recent origin, possibly linking it to the French variety Grenache or its Catalan synonym Garnacha. Indeed, Vernaccia Nera shares notable similarities with Garnacha, as well as with Cannonau of Sardinia and Tocai Rosso from the province of Vicenza. While all three varieties have a common genetic ancestry, they are still officially classified as separate cultivars in Italy’s National Register of Grapevine Varieties.

Vernaccia Nera is a late-ripening, vigorous vine with high yields. Its berries are black, medium-sized, and spherical, featuring a thick, black-purple skin. The grape clusters are medium in size, tight, and cylindrical-conical, often with wings. The leaves are typically medium, five-lobed (sometimes three-lobed), and orbicular in shape.

Vernaccia Nera is best known for its role in producing Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG, a unique red sparkling wine. The winemaking process is particularly unusual: about 40% of the grapes are dried (appassimento method), and then blended with wine made from fresh grapes before undergoing a secondary fermentation. This labor-intensive process results in a wine of exceptional character and quality.

The resulting wine is a ruby red, though not very intense in color. It offers a vinous aroma and a fresh, harmonious palate that is medium-bodied with a slightly bitter finish.