Velenosi Winery: A Taste of Marche in Miami

Exploring Velenosi Winery’s portfolio was a journey into the heart of Marche. This region, lesser-known yet richly expressive, offers a distinct taste of Italy. Hosted by Vias Wine and organized by IEEM, the Miami tasting event gave an exclusive look at Velenosi’s blend of tradition and modern winemaking. For both enthusiasts and professionals, it was a chance to experience Marche’s unique terroir through its indigenous grape varieties. Highlights included Verdicchio, Pecorino, and Lacrima di Morro. Each wine reflected Velenosi’s commitment to capturing the authentic flavors of its Piceno vineyards.

The Origins and Passion of Velenosi Winery

Founded in 1984 by Ercole and Angela Velenosi, the winery has become one of Italy’s standout producers. It combines artisan tradition with modern techniques. Velenosi Winery crafts wines that reflect the vibrant Piceno landscape. This region’s hills stretch to meet the Adriatic Sea, creating a stunning backdrop for their vineyards. The unique setting and fertile soils produce wines rich with the scents and flavors of Marche. Velenosi’s offerings include both native and international grape varieties. Each bottle carries the essence of Piceno’s long history and the the family’s passion for winemaking.

Wines Tasted: A Journey Through Marche’s Native Grapes

At the Miami tasting, we sampled a selection of Velenosi wines that showcased Marche’s diverse indigenous grapes:

1. Passerina Spumante Brut
   • Varietal: 100% Passerina
   • Known for its high acidity and aromatic richness, this sparkling wine is crafted using the Charmat method, ideal for highlighting Passerina’s refreshing profile and delicate flavors.
2. Verdicchio Castelli di Jesi Querciantica DOC 2023
   • Varietal: 100% Verdicchio
   • Often called the “Italian Chablis,” Verdicchio has a characteristic green tint and longevity, with hints of herbs and stone fruits. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, it retains a crisp and fresh finish.
3. Pecorino Offida Villa Angela DOCG 2023
   • Varietal: 100% Pecorino
   • This floral and mineral-driven wine takes its name from “pecora” (sheep), a nod to the region’s pastoral traditions. With high acidity, it is perfect for seafood pairings and embodies the freshness of Marche.
4. Lacrima di Morro D’Alba DOC 2021
   • Varietal: 100% Lacrima di Morro D’Alba
   • With notes of strawberry, violet, and rose, Lacrima di Morro D’Alba is a wine of historical significance. Its soft tannins and fruity aroma make it a smooth, approachable red that’s distinctly Marche.
5. Rosso Piceno Brecciarolo DOC 2022
   • Varietals: 70% Montepulciano, 30% Sangiovese
   • Velenosi’s first wine, Brecciarolo, is complex and aromatic, with flavors of red fruits and spices. Aged in French oak, it’s a full-bodied, charismatic blend that embodies the Piceno terroir.
6. Rosso Piceno Superiore Roggio del Filare DOC 2020
   • Varietals: 70% Montepulciano, 30% Sangiovese
   • The most awarded wine in Velenosi’s lineup, Roggio del Filare has layers of black fruit, spices, and floral notes. Aged in French oak, it is smooth and well-structured, a testament to Velenosi’s craftsmanship.
7. Vino e Visciole (Dessert Cherry Wine)
   • Varietals: 70% Lacrima, 30% wild cherry syrup (Visciole)
   • This traditional Marche dessert wine combines Lacrima grapes and wild cherry syrup for a unique, rich flavor, steeped in medieval heritage and perfect as a “meditation wine.”

Piegari Ristorante: Perfect Pairings in Miami

Each wine was thoughtfully paired with courses from Piegari Ristorante, which is known for its Italian-inspired dishes. These dishes beautifully complemented the Velenosi portfolio. Piegari’s culinary team crafted pairings that enhanced the unique characteristics of each wine. With traditional flavors and ingredients, they brought a taste of Italy to Miami. The food and wine pairings underscored the regional authenticity of Marche’s cuisine. They also highlighted the versatility of Velenosi’s wines.

The Role of Vias Wine and IEEM

This event was made possible by Vias Wine, a prominent importer dedicated to bringing Italy’s finest wines to the United States since 1983. Under the leadership of Fabrizio Pedrolli, Vias has built an extensive portfolio that emphasizes quality and regional diversity. The collection showcases unique varietals from Italian vineyards.

IEEM (International Event & Exhibition Management) organized the tasting. They have a legacy of high-quality Italian wine events across North and South America. Known for their hospitality and expertise, IEEM connects wine professionals with exceptional Italian wines. This has made IEEM a cornerstone of Italian wine industry outreach worldwide. Founded by Giancarlo Voglino and Marina Nedic in 1999, IEEM has grown significantly. Their Miami office has established a strong presence in the U.S. market.

A Memorable Introduction to Marche’s Wines

For those passionate about Italy, this tasting offered a journey through Marche’s vineyards and traditions. Each glass captured the region’s essence. Velenosi’s wines provided a sensory exploration of the terroir and native grapes. Marche emerged as a region rich in history and flavor. We look forward to sharing more in Live in Italy Magazine’s November Wine Guide. Each wine and pairing will continue to inspire appreciation for Italy’s less-traveled wine regions.

Learn more about Velenosi Vini.

Lisa Morales

Editor-in-Chief

Based in Miami, I am the Editor-in-Chief for Live in Italy Magazine. I am a member of the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) and contributor to internationally recognized art; food and wine; and travel publications. In my free time, I love to cook and bake; take photographs; go for nature walks; and run on the beach. I am WSET 2 Certified and working on the CSW. I look forward to getting to know you! Follow Us @LiveInItalyMag 🇮🇹.