Authentic Italian Wine Culture Lands at l’Enoteca in il Mercato Centrale
Melbourne’s Italian wine scene has just taken a vibrant turn with the launch of l’Enoteca at il Mercato Centrale. Perched on the market’s top floor, this new destination brings a slice of Veneto to Melbourne’s bustling CBD, thanks to the vision and expertise of Clarissa Lorenzato, a sommelier and hospitality veteran whose roots run deep into the Italian countryside.
Place mentioned
Il Mercato Centrale Melbourne
Clarissa’s journey began among the vineyards of Veneto, where family harvests and grape-picking became part of daily life. By 15, she was already running her first restaurant with her sister, weaving a love of food and wine into every venture. Her career has since spanned roles as a sommelier, wine specialist, and restaurant manager, culminating in the creation of l’Enoteca—a space she describes as an invitation to experience wine the Italian way: joyfully and without pretense.
“I want to show Melburnians how Italians enjoy wine,” Clarissa explains. “You don’t need to be an expert—just open to tasting and discovering what suits your palate. It’s about finding enjoyment and connection, not intimidation.”
At l’Enoteca, expect a curated selection of Italian varietals, each representing the country’s diverse regions, alongside Australian wines with an Italian twist. The standout? Garganega, a grape close to Clarissa’s heart. With her guidance, guests can explore the stories behind the bottles, demystifying wine for everyone from newcomers to aficionados.
Wine at l’Enoteca is not just a drink; it’s a bridge to culture, tradition, and memory. Clarissa sees it as a medium for storytelling—whether that’s the aroma of a Veneto white transporting you to her childhood vineyards or a robust red reminding you of lively family dinners. She hopes the experience sparks new memories for Melbourne locals, whether through romantic evenings, casual after-work glasses, or celebratory toasts.
il Mercato Centrale, already a vibrant hub of Italian artisans, offers the perfect setting. Here, l’Enoteca’s bar and wine cellar sit surrounded by masterful neighbours: Valerio Violetti’s La Pizza e i Fritti Napoletani, Annapaola D’Alessio’s La Pasta Fatta in Casa, and Alessandro Grillo’s La Pasticceria. Together, they create an immersive food and wine experience—one that pairs perfectly with the wines on offer.
To mark its debut, Clarissa hosted an intimate media event, showcasing a range of wines paired with signature dishes from her artisan collaborators. The evening was more than a tasting; it was an introduction to the warm, accessible approach that defines l’Enoteca.
With its launch, l’Enoteca promises to become a cornerstone of Melbourne’s vibrant food and drink culture. Clarissa’s dedication to inclusivity, education, and authentic Italian hospitality ensures it’s a place where anyone can unwind, connect, and discover the beauty of Italian wine—one glass at a time.
Melbourne’s Italian wine scene has just taken a vibrant turn with the launch of l’Enoteca at il Mercato Centrale. Perched on the market’s top floor, this new destination brings a slice of Veneto to Melbourne’s bustling CBD, thanks to the vision and expertise of Clarissa Lorenzato, a sommelier and hospitality veteran whose roots run deep into the Italian countryside.
