Ready for a journey to Tuscany, Italy? Today we're taking you on a journey to discover one of the most iconic Italian wines, Sangiovese. This wine grape varietal has been around for centuries and has become a popular choice among wine lovers around the world. From its unique flavour profile to the amazing regions where it is grown, there's so much to explore about Sangiovese wines. So, let's dive right in!
Why People Love Sangiovese Wines
Sangiovese is a beloved red wine among wine enthusiasts worldwide. But what makes this wine grape varietal so special? First, Sangiovese is a versatile grape that can be made into a range of different styles of wine, from light and fruity to bold and complex. This makes it a great wine for pairing with a wide variety of foods.
Additionally, Sangiovese wines have a unique flavour profile that is distinct from other wines. Sangiovese wines tend to have notes of cherry, plum, and leather, along with high acidity and tannins. These characteristics give Sangiovese wines a bright, juicy flavour that is both refreshing and complex.
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Regions
Sangiovese is primarily grown in Italy, and it is the most widely planted grape in Tuscany, the region where it originated. Tuscany is home to some of the most famous Sangiovese wines, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. However, Sangiovese is also grown in other regions of Italy, such as Umbria and Emilia-Romagna. Outside of Italy, Sangiovese is also grown in California, Australia, and Argentina.
Climate
Sangiovese grapes thrive in a Mediterranean climate, with warm and sunny days and cool nights. These conditions can be found in the Tuscany region of Italy, where the grape is most commonly grown. The grape is also cultivated in other parts of Italy, as well as in California, Australia, and Argentina. The climate plays a crucial role in the ripening process of the grape, and it can affect the flavour profile of the resulting wine.
Flavour Profile
Sangiovese is known for its medium to full body and high acidity, making it a versatile wine that can be paired with a variety of foods. The wine typically has notes of cherry, plum, and violet, as well as earthy and herbal undertones. Sangiovese wines can range from light and fruity to rich and complex, depending on the region and winemaking style. Oak aging can also add notes of vanilla and spice to the wine.
Popular Vintages
Sangiovese wines are typically meant to be consumed within a few years of their release, but some vintages are known for their aging potential. The 2010 vintage in Tuscany, for example, produced wines with excellent aging potential due to the ideal growing conditions that year. Other notable vintages include 2006, 2007, and 2015. It's important to note that aging potential can vary depending on the region and winemaking style.
Most Popular Sangiovese Wines
Chianti Classico
Produced in the heart of Tuscany, Chianti Classico is one of the most popular Sangiovese wines. It has a ruby red color and a dry, medium-bodied flavor with notes of cherries, plums, and spices. It pairs well with pasta dishes and red meats.
Brunello di Montalcino
Made from Sangiovese grapes grown exclusively in the Montalcino region of Tuscany, Brunello di Montalcino is a complex and full-bodied wine with notes of dark fruit, leather, and tobacco. It is aged for a minimum of four years, which gives it a rich, tannic flavor. It pairs well with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Produced in the Montepulciano region of Tuscany, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a medium to full-bodied wine with notes of cherries, blackberries, and spices. It is aged for a minimum of two years, which gives it a smooth and refined flavor. It pairs well with pasta dishes and grilled meats.
Alternatives to Sangiovese
Nebbiolo
Grown in the Piedmont region of Italy, Nebbiolo is a full-bodied red wine with high tannins and notes of red fruit, roses, and spices. It is known for its complexity and aging potential.
Barbera
Also grown in Piedmont, Barbera is a medium-bodied red wine with high acidity and notes of dark fruit and spices. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including pizza and pasta dishes.
Tempranillo
Grown in Spain and Portugal, Tempranillo is a medium to full-bodied red wine with notes of red fruit, leather, and spices. It pairs well with grilled meats and aged cheeses.
There you have it, a guide to Sangiovese wines. Whether you prefer the bold flavors of Chianti Classico or the complex taste of Brunello di Montalcino, there is a Sangiovese wine out there for everyone. Don't be afraid to try something new and explore the different regions and flavors of this popular Italian varietal. Cheers!
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