Vermentino Nero

Vermentino Nero First official mention of the grape was in 1874 but it was only entered into the list of recognized varieties in 1992 due to the tenacious efforts of producer Pier-Paolo Lorieri, (who makes a vermentino nero called Vernero) and Tuscan wine producer, Paolo Storchi helped revive Vermentino nero.

Cima goes on to suggest that white vermentino, which is grown throughout Liguria, Tuscany, Sardinia and Corsica, is actually a mutation of vermentino nero. Others, however, believe white vermentino is an entirely separate variety.
Whatever the origin of vermentino nero might be, a few things are clear: It has been here for as long as anyone can remember and, although still rare—not to mention difficult to grow and vinify—the variety seems destined for stardom (if, that is, it can manage to survive).

Vermentino nero is now one of the approved varieties under the Candia dei Colli Rosso DOC and the Val di Magra IGT (it can also be used in Colli di Luni Rosso blends), most producers prefer to bottle it under the region-wide Toscano Rosso IGT. In fact, some of the most exciting wines of the Lunigiana are produced under this generic designation.