Sangiovese [san-gea-vehsay]

Definition: An important red grape grown in the Tuscany region of Italy. It's the principal grape used in making Chianti.

Grown primarily in: Italy and United States

Best Climate: Warm to Hot

Winemaking: Used as the primary grape in Chianti, it's blended with a variety of other red Italian varietals. In the "Super Tuscans" (and in California wines) it's blended with cabernet sauvignon and benefits from some oak aging.

Nose: Medium spice, rich red fruit, milk chocolate.

Mouth: Medium to Full Body, firm acids, medium tannins.

Note: Name literally means "Blood of Jove" or "Blood of Christ."

Your Guide to the Varietal Grape

Varietal Facts

Select any varietal on the list below to learn the facts!

Barbera Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon Chardonnay
Gamay Gamay Beaujolais
Gerwurztraminer Malbec
Merlot Nebbiolo
Petite Sirah Petite Verdot
Pinot Blanc Pinot Meunier
Pinot Noir Riesling
Sauvignon Blanc Sangiovese
Semillon Syrah
Viognier Zinfandel