Grape Varietals

Sangiovese

Sangiovese is a red grape variety that is widely grown in the central and southern regions of Italy, where it is used to produce some of the country's most famous wines, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

The origins of Sangiovese are somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to have been cultivated in the Tuscany region for many centuries. The name "Sangiovese" is derived from the Latin "Sanguis Jovis," which means "the blood of Jupiter," and it is thought to be named after the bright red color of the grape's juice.

Sangiovese is a medium to large-sized grape with a thick skin and a high level of tannins. It is a relatively late-ripening grape, and it tends to produce wines that are full-bodied and well-structured, with flavors and aromas of red fruit, cherries, and sometimes earthy or leathery notes.

The vineyards where Sangiovese is grown are often located on hillsides with well-draining soils, and the grapes are traditionally grown using the "cordon spur" pruning method, which helps to keep the yields low and the concentration of flavors high.

In addition to its use in the production of red wines, Sangiovese is also sometimes used to produce rosé wines and sparkling wines. Its high acidity and relatively low pH make it well-suited for sparkling wine production, and it is often used in the production of sparkling wines in the Tuscany region.

Sangiovese is grown in many regions of Italy, but it is most closely associated with the Tuscany region, where it is the dominant grape variety in the production of Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. These wines are known for their complexity, depth, and long aging potential, and they are highly sought after by wine lovers around the world.

In addition to its use in the production of traditional Italian wines, Sangiovese is also grown in other parts of the world, including California, Australia, and South America. While the wines produced from Sangiovese grapes grown outside of Italy may not have the same depth and complexity as those produced in Tuscany, they can still be quite enjoyable and offer a different expression of the grape.