Italy's most planted grape varietal, Sangiovese is the pride & joy of the Tuscan Chianti region. Sangiovese has many clones, which can result in a range of flavors and styles in the wines produced from this grape variety. Some of the most well-known clones include Sangiovese Grosso (used in Brunello di Montalcino), Sangiovese Piccolo (used in Chianti), and Sangiovese di Romagna (used in Sangiovese wines from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy).

Varietal Origin: Sangiovese is a red grape variety that is indigenous to Italy, particularly the Tuscany region, where it is the primary grape used in the production of Chianti and other famous Italian wines. It is also grown in other regions of Italy, as well as in other parts of the world, including California, Australia, and Argentina.

Typical Taste Profile: Sangiovese wines are known for their bright red fruit flavors, such as cherry and raspberry, along with floral and herbal notes. Sangiovese wines can have moderate to high acidity, with medium to high tannins depending on the winemaking style and region. The style of Sangiovese wines can vary widely, from light and fresh to full-bodied and powerful, depending on the terroir and winemaking techniques employed.

Regional Styles: Sangiovese is widely used in Italy to produce a range of regional wines, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. These wines often exhibit distinct regional characteristics, with Chianti known for its bright fruitiness, Brunello di Montalcino for its powerful structure and age-worthiness, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano for its elegant and complex profile.

Food Pairings: Sangiovese wines are versatile with food and pair well with a variety of dishes. They are a classic match for Italian cuisine, including pasta with tomato-based sauces, roasted meats, and aged cheeses. Sangiovese's acidity and tannins can help cut through rich and fatty foods, making it a great option for pairing with hearty and savory dishes.

Read more about the different regional styles here!