Venere is the only certified black Italian rice in existence. This wholegrain rice has a natural black color and a particular cereal flavor. Venere was introduced to Italy from China, where it was known as Forbidden Rice. In ancient China, black rice was reserved only for the Emperor and was said to provide him supernatural nutritional and aphrodisiac properties. This rice has high levels of Magnesium, Phosphorus and Selenium, each of which is beneficial to our health. Venere is ideal for adding color to seafood dishes, sauteed vegetable dishes, salads and sides. Merlano grows its Black Venere on dedicated pastures in the Piedmont region of Italy.The Merlano family has grown, processed and packaged exceptional rice for over 50 years. Unlike other growers, Merlano processes and packages their own rice in their own plant. To ensure top quality production, Merlano grows its rice in distinctive northern Italian clay soil, enriched by pristine mountain water and organic fertilizers. Marrying traditional methods, such as stone husking, with advanced methods that transform raw grain into ready to be eaten rice, further enhances the uniquely delicious characteristics of Merlano rice. Their rice is not only perfect for making risotto but for any recipe which requires a first class ingredient.
