The Turchetta is an indigenous grape variety from Veneto, once widely cultivated in the Padua province (as noted by Marzotto in the early 1900s) and the Polesine region (Rovigo province). Currently endangered, a few producers in southern Padua and Polesine are working to restore it, recognizing its viticultural and enological qualities, which make it particularly promising for producing robust red wines.

The Turchetta has a long history, with cultivation dating back to the period following Venetian reclamation projects. It was among the ancient autochthonous grape varieties that adapted to challenging climates: hot and humid summers with modest yields, often barely sufficient for family consumption.

Historically, it was found in 23 municipalities of Rovigo province and another 17 locations grew a now-lost variety called Calma Turchetta. It was also widespread in Padua, though it should not be confused with another Turchetta variety once cultivated in the Belluno area. Like many minor varieties, the Turchetta was almost wiped out during the wine crisis of the 1970s and 1980s, when it was replaced by more “modern” French and Italian varieties.

This grape thrives in clay plains, provided the soil is well-drained. It is particularly rustic, showing good resistance to downy mildew, other fungal diseases, and rot. Recently rediscovered in Rovigo and Padua, driven by a growing interest in reviving local varieties, the Turchetta is now cultivated by only a few producers in its traditional zones. There are only a few remaining rows, and evaluating its wines fully will require the release of single-variety bottlings in the future.