2018 Velenosi Rosso Piceno Superiore DOC

Quite a few people believe that Rosso Superiore, made from Sangiovese and Montepulciano grapes, is one of the finest DOC wines in central Italy. It is made in the very hilly parts of Marche, but only in part of the Ascoli Piceno region has the quality and expression of the wine been promoted to the qualification 'Superior'. Not only in Italy (awarded 'Tre Bicchieri' in the Gambero Rosso) but also far beyond, the wine has gained a lot of popularity. The basis of the success lies in the good combination of the wine tradition in the region and at the same time a sense of modern tastes. The result is convincing: a very 'full-bodied' wine that can age for years, with a particularly soft and pleasant taste due to its wood aging in oak barrels. Ruby red in color with an intense scent of ripe fruit and vanilla. This gives a very warm, full, well-built taste. James Suckling: 91/100

Angela and Ercole Velenosi had been active in viticulture for years. In 1984 they made their dream come true: they bought these beautifully situated plots in the Marche and produce both white and red wines, marked by their authenticity and character. The Rosso Piceno is one of the most produced wines in the Marche. This blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes is good and affordable, which is why it is so popular. In the Marche region, northern and southern Italy come together and that also applies to this Brecciarolo from Velenosi.

The juicy fruit of the south (Montepulciano) meets the fresh acidity of a Chianti (Sangiovese). The wine matures for a year in used oak barriques to soften the tannins and give balance and structure to the wine. Superiore, incidentally, will stand behind it if the wine contains more than 11.5% alcohol, in this case 13.5%. For example, according to the locals, this hearty Rosso Piceno goes perfectly with their salami, such as the 'Coppa di Testa', a mix of pig's head, skin, ears and tail. Not a strong stomach? A piece of grilled meat or Parmesan cheese also goes well with it.