Sangiovese

Sangiovese is Italy's most famous red grape variety and the backbone of many central Italian wines. It is especially associated with Tuscany, where it shapes Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and many IGT wines. Sangioveto is an older Tuscan name that still appears in some contexts, but Sangiovese is the internationally recognised name.

The grape is prized for red cherry fruit, savoury spice, bright acidity and firm but usually moderate tannins. Depending on origin and ageing, Sangiovese can be juicy and easy to enjoy or complex, structured and long-lived.

What does Sangiovese taste like?

Sangiovese typically shows sour cherry, red plum, raspberry, dried herbs, violet, tobacco, leather and earthy spice. The fruit is often more savoury than sweet, with a refreshing, food-friendly edge.

Acidity is one of its defining features, while tannins range from gentle to firm. Oak ageing can add cedar, vanilla, toast and clove, but the best wines keep the grape's cherry, herbal and mineral character in focus.

Sangiovese and Sangioveto: where is it grown?

Sangiovese is deeply rooted in central Italy, especially Tuscany. It is central to Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and many wines from Maremma and the broader Tuscan hills.

It is also grown in Emilia-Romagna, Umbria, Marche and beyond, with smaller plantings overseas. Still, its benchmark identity remains Italian, where climate, soils and tradition reveal its savoury depth.

Which Sangiovese styles are there?

Fresh, unoaked Sangiovese can be bright, red-fruited and easy to drink. More serious Tuscan styles are structured, savoury and often aged in large casks or barrels for added complexity.

Sangiovese also appears in blends with local and international varieties, rosé wines and rare sparkling styles. Its most important expressions, however, are dry red wines ranging from lively trattoria reds to cellar-worthy classics.


What food pairs with Sangiovese?

Sangiovese is one of the great food wines. It pairs with tomato-based pasta, pizza, grilled sausages, roast pork, bistecca alla fiorentina, ragù, mushrooms, pecorino and Tuscan bean dishes.

Its acidity cuts through olive oil, tomato and cured meats, while its savoury tannins suit grilled and roasted flavours. Mature bottles are excellent with game birds, truffle dishes and aged cheeses.

Buy Sangiovese wine online

Sangiovese is ideal when you want an Italian red with freshness, savoury complexity and real table appeal. It can be charming in youth or profound with age, depending on region and producer.

Browse our Sangiovese wines to discover cherry-scented, herbal and structured reds for pasta, grilled meats, Mediterranean cooking and classic Italian moments.




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