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What is Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG?
Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG is one of Italy’s most unusual and captivating wines — a deep ruby-red sparkling wine made primarily from the rare Vernaccia Nera grape. Produced exclusively in the rolling hills of Serrapetrona in Le Marche, it is Italy’s only triple-fermented red sparkling wine, a meticulous and historic process that results in a vibrant, aromatic spumante with both festive sparkle and serious structure.
History of Vernaccia di Serrapetrona
Wine has been made in Serrapetrona since at least the Middle Ages, when the village’s unique climate and terrain made it ideal for both fresh and dried grape vinification. The DOCG was established in 2004, elevating its status and protecting its centuries-old traditions. The hallmark triple fermentation, which includes fermenting partially dried grapes, is rooted in local customs of appassimento — a drying technique that concentrates sugars, flavors, and aromas.
Terroir & Geography
Serrapetrona lies in the province of Macerata, nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. Vineyards sit at 450–700 meters above sea level, benefiting from:
- Mountain breezes that prevent rot during grape drying
- Limestone-rich soils that add minerality
- Continental climate with marked day-night temperature swings
This terroir gives Vernaccia di Serrapetrona its deep color, lifted aromatics, and fresh acidity.
Vernaccia Nera Grape Profile
The star of the show, Vernaccia Nera, is a local black-skinned grape grown almost exclusively in Serrapetrona. Known for:
- Aromatic intensity: wild berries, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
- High tannins balanced by freshness
- Versatility in both still and sparkling formats
In the DOCG, at least 85% of the wine must be Vernaccia Nera, with the remaining 15% permitted from other local red varieties.
Triple Fermentation & DOCG Rules
The production method is what truly sets Vernaccia di Serrapetrona apart:
- First Fermentation: Freshly harvested grapes are fermented into still wine.
- Appassimento: Around 40% of the grapes are dried for several months, concentrating flavors.
- Second Fermentation: The dried grapes are vinified and blended with the still wine.
- Third Fermentation: The blend undergoes secondary fermentation in tank or bottle to create natural sparkle.
DOCG regulations require:
- Minimum 11.5% ABV
- Aging until June 30 of the year after harvest
- Both dry (Secco) and sweet (Dolce) styles allowed
Key Facts at a Glance
- Type: Red sparkling wine (spumante)
- Region: Le Marche, Italy
- Grape: ≥85% Vernaccia Nera
- Fermentation: Triple fermentation with appassimento
- DOCG Status: Since 2004
- Styles: Secco (dry) & Dolce (sweet)
Tasting Notes
Secco: Deep ruby color with violet reflections, aromas of blackberry, black cherry, black pepper, cinnamon, and hints of violet. Dry, structured, and lightly tannic with fine, persistent bubbles.
Dolce: Sweeter profile with lush red berry jam, baking spices, and a velvety mousse.
How to Serve & Pair Vernaccia
- Serving Temp: 12–14°C (chilled, but not too cold)
- Glassware: Tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass for aromatics
Pairings: - Secco: Lamb ragù, aged pecorino, roasted game, lentil soup
- Dolce: Chocolate desserts, spiced biscotti, holiday cakes like panettone
Buying Guide & Pricing
Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG is a niche wine with limited production, so availability outside Italy can be sporadic. Expect:
- In Italy: €12–€20
- International: $18–$35 (often via specialty retailers or Italian wine importers)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vernaccia di Serrapetrona the same as Vernaccia di San Gimignano?
A: No. They share a name but are completely different grapes and wine styles.
Q: Can it age?
A: Secco styles can age 5–8 years, developing deeper spice and dried fruit complexity. Dolce styles are best enjoyed young.
Cultural Highlights & Fun Facts
- It’s the only Italian red spumante made with triple fermentation.
- Celebrated each November during Appassimenti Aperti, when wineries open their drying rooms to the public.
- Locals say its sparkle “captures the light of Le Marche’s autumn sunsets.”
Top Producers to Try
- Alberto Quacquarini
- Colleluce
- Serboni
- Podere sul Lago
Vernaccia vs. Lambrusco – Quick Comparison
| Feature | Vernaccia di Serrapetrona | Lambrusco |
| Color | Deep ruby, purple hues | Ruby to garnet |
| Sparkle | Triple-fermented | Charmat or metodo ancestrale |
| Primary Grape | Vernaccia Nera | Various Lambrusco varieties |
| Styles | Secco, Dolce | Secco, Amabile, Dolce |
| Origin | Le Marche | Emilia-Romagna |
CTA for Audience Engagement
Curious about Italy’s most unique sparkling red? Find a bottle of Vernaccia di Serrapetrona DOCG near you, or plan a trip to Le Marche for the Appassimenti Aperti festival. Share your tasting journey with #DrinkItalianSpumante and join our global community of wine lovers.
