Which wines are made with Sangiovese

Sangiovese is a red grape that is primarily associated with Italy. It is the most widely planted grape in the country and is known for producing high-quality wines with great aging potential. Sangiovese is also cultivated in other parts of the world, such as Argentina, Australia, and the United States, but it is in Italy where it truly shines.

Tuscany is the where Sangiovese truly thrives, and it is considered the spiritual home of this grape variety. In fact, some of the most iconic and prestigious Italian wines are made primarily with Sangiovese. One of the most famous examples is Chianti, a red wine from the Chianti region in Tuscany. Chianti is made primarily with Sangiovese and can range from light and fruity to full-bodied and complex, depending on the specific winemaking techniques used.

Another renowned wine made with Sangiovese is Brunello di Montalcino. This wine comes from the town of Montalcino, also located in Tuscany. Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively with Sangiovese grapes and is known for its powerful, concentrated flavors and ability to age gracefully for many years. The strict production regulations for Brunello di Montalcino ensure that only the highest quality Sangiovese grapes are used, resulting in a wine that is highly regarded by wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Aside from Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, Sangiovese is also a major component in the production of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, another noteworthy wine from Tuscany. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is made primarily with Sangiovese, but it is blended with other local grape varieties such as Canaiolo and Mammolo. The inclusion of these additional grapes adds complexity and depth to the wine, resulting in a balanced and elegant final product.

Moving outside of Tuscany, Sangiovese plays a prominent role in the production of other Italian wines as well. For instance, in Emilia-Romagna, a region in northern Italy, the Sangiovese grape is used to create Lambrusco, a unique sparkling red wine. Lambrusco is known for its fresh, vibrant flavors and slightly fizzy character, making it a popular choice for casual occasions.

Beyond Italy, Sangiovese has found success in regions such as California, where it has been embraced and grown with great success. In the United States, Sangiovese is often made as a single-varietal wine, and it can exhibit a wide range of styles and characteristics. Californian Sangiovese can be bold and full-bodied, showcasing flavors of dark cherry, tobacco, and dried herbs.

In recent years, Sangiovese has also gained popularity in Argentina and Australia. These regions have started planting the grape and producing their own expressions of Sangiovese, often with a distinctive New World twist. These wines tend to be fruit-forward, with ripe berry flavors and approachable tannins.

In conclusion, Sangiovese is a grape variety that has made a significant impact on the wine world, particularly in Italy. From the classic Chianti to the age-worthy Brunello di Montalcino, Sangiovese wines offer a diverse range of styles and flavors. Whether you explore the prestigious wines of Tuscany or venture into the New World, there is a Sangiovese wine out there to suit every palate.