Sangiovese (aka "The Tuscan Drama Queen")
Sangiovese may have a few cousins hanging out in California, but let’s be honest; this grape’s soul lives in Italy, specifically Tuscany, where it practically runs the show. We’re talking Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino… aka the Beyoncé and Jay-Z of Italian reds.
Medium-bodied with a flair for drama, Sangiovese hits your palate with cherry, cranberry, a little orange peel zip, and just enough earthiness to remind you it’s not messing around. It's got high acidity too, which is wine-speak for “Bring on the food, I’m ready to dance.”
And when it comes to pairing? Fuhgeddaboudit. Pasta, pizza, lasagna... Sangiovese was made for Italian food the way Dean Martin was made for love songs. This isn’t just a wine; it’s a dinner guest who tells great stories and never overstays its welcome.
Tasting Tips:
- Give it a swirl and watch for those ruby-red flashes - it’s a show-off.
- Expect that tart cherry and cranberry punch first, then linger on the earthy, herbal notes.
- Don’t sip it alone. Its acidity practically begs for food.
Characteristics:
- Medium-bodied with lively acidity
- Flavors of cherry, cranberry, and red plum
- Hints of orange peel, herbs, and earthy undertones
- Medium tannins that soften with age
- Ruby color, sometimes leaning garnet with age
Food Pairing Spotlights:
- Pizza Margherita – The tangy tomato sauce is a perfect match for Sangiovese’s acidity. Pro tip: drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to make the flavors sing.
- Lasagna Bolognese – The richness of meat and béchamel balances the grape’s bright red fruit. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil for harmony.
- Grilled Lamb Chops – Earthy herbs and juicy meat echo the savory notes in the wine. A rosemary rub takes it over the top.
- Mushroom Risotto – The wine’s earthy side cozies up beautifully with umami-packed mushrooms. A little parmesan seals the deal.
🎉 Fun Extra Info:
- Sangiovese is Italy’s most planted grape. It’s practically the mayor of Tuscany.
- Its name comes from “Sanguis Jovis,” meaning “the blood of Jupiter”, because Roman gods clearly knew how to brand things.
- Brunello di Montalcino (a pure Sangiovese) is one of Italy’s most age-worthy wines, capable of decades in the cellar.
- Chianti bottles used to come in those round, straw-covered flasks (fiasco). Today, the wine is better, but the décor vibes live on.