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Sangiovese: the Heart and Soul of Italian Wine

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Italian wine lovers, it's time to raise a glass to one of the most beloved grape varieties in the country: Sangiovese. This versatile grape is the backbone of some of Italy's most iconic wines, such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. In this article, we will take a closer look at Sangiovese, its history, and the wines it produces, in an effort to help you discover the true essence of Italian wine.
"Sangiovese" name probably originates from Latin expression "Sanguis Jovis", which means "blood of Jupiter". It is believed to have originated in Tuscany and it is the most widely planted grape variety in the country. It is a medium-bodied grape that is known for its high acidity, moderate tannins, and bright red fruit flavors, such as cherry and strawberry. The grape's unique combination of acidity and tannins gives it a distinct character that sets it apart from other grape varieties.
The most famous wine made from sangiovese is Chianti, which is a DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) wine from the Tuscany region. Chianti is made from a minimum of 80% Sangiovese grapes and is known for its bright red fruit flavors, medium-body, and moderate tannins. Chianti is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of foods, including pasta dishes, pizza, and red meats.
Another Tuscany famous wine made from sangiovese is Brunello di Montalcino. Brunello is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, especially its variety called "Brunello" and is considered one of the most prestigious wines in Italy. It is known for its high tannins, rich red fruit flavors, and long aging potential. Brunello di Montalcino is typically aged for several years in durmast barrels before release and is best enjoyed with rich, hearty dishes such as wild game and grilled meats.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is another wine made from Sangiovese that is gaining popularity in recent years. It is another DOCG wine from the Tuscany region, and it is made of Sangiovese (a variety locally known as "Prugnolo Gentile") and a few other grape varieties. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is known for its rich, complex flavor profile and its ability to age well. It is typically enjoyed with pasta dishes, red meats, and aged hard cheeses.
Sangiovese is not only limited to Tuscany, it is also planted in other regions of Italy such as Emilia-Romagna (which has its own variety called "Sangiovese di Romagna"), Umbria (where it is used to produce Torgiano, a strong-bodied red wine), Lazio, Abruzzo and Marche, where it is used to make famous red wines like the Rosso Conero and the Rosso Piceno.
Apart from its traditional use in Italy, Sangiovese has also been successfully planted in other regions of the world such as California, Australia and Argentina, where it's been used to produce wines with similar characteristics to its Italian counterparts.
In conclusion, Sangiovese is a grape variety that has played a significant role in shaping the Italian wine industry. Its versatility and unique character make it a favorite among wine lovers and a must-try for anyone looking to explore the true essence of Italian wine. We recommend trying Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to get a sense of the full range of flavors and styles that sangiovese can produce. And don't forget to pair it with some delicious Italian food to make the experience even more special.
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