The Venere variety is an aromatic rice with an intense black color, named after the ancient goddess of love, Aphrodite. It was once known as “Forbidden Rice” because it was cultivated exclusively for the Emperor of China. Venere rice is an Italian variety, and its unique aroma is reminiscent of freshly baked bread. Due to minimal processing, it retains all its nutritional elements. It is rich in fiber and trace minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, selenium, and manganese, as well as B-complex vitamins. Its color comes from the presence of anthocyanins, which have powerful antioxidant properties. Venere rice is the result of a natural cross between an Asian and an Italian variety.