Grape · Red

Sangiovese

Also known as Prugnolo Gentile in Montepulciano, Nielluccio in Corsica, Brunello in Montalcino or Morellino in Maremma

Warm climate

About

Italy's most planted grape. Forms the backbone of Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Often blended with other varieties to add structure and complexity.

Typical profile

Body

Moderate

Tannins

Firm

Acidity

Electric

Sweetness

Dry

Aromas

What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.

Young · fresh from the glass

red cherry plum thyme tobacco

Aged · develops with bottle time

dried cherry leather wet earth truffle

Explore aromas

Oak influence

Common

Growing regions

How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.

France

Corsica

Known locally as Nielluccio, Corsica's signature red grape producing structured, aromatic reds in Patrimonio

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

Leaner↓Softer↓Rounder↓

Lighter, earthier Sangiovese from Emilia-Romagna. Simpler, everyday style.

Tuscany

Softer↓Rounder↓

Sour cherry, dried herbs, and tobacco define Tuscan Sangiovese. Chianti Classico is bright and herbal; Brunello goes deeper, into coffee, leather, and decades of life.

Umbria

Softer↓Rounder↓

Blended with Sagrantino in Montefalco Rosso. Adds freshness and drinkability.

Food pairings

Osso buco alla milanese with saffron risottoGrilled Florentine T-bone steak with rosemary and garlicWild boar ragu with pappardelle pastaAged pecorino cheese with truffle honey and walnutsHerb-crusted rack of lamb with roasted vegetablesPizza margherita with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella

Similar grapes

Nebbiolo

red cherryplum

Super Tuscan

red cherryplumtobacco

Rioja Blend

red cherryplumtobacco

Tempranillo

red cherryplum

Samtrot

red cherryplum

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sangiovese taste like?▼

Sangiovese offers bright red cherry and plum flavors when young, complemented by dried herbs and tobacco notes. As it ages, the fruit becomes more concentrated with dried cherry character, developing complex leather, earth, and spice aromas.

Where does Sangiovese grow best?▼

Sangiovese thrives in warm climates and is most famously grown in Italy's Tuscany region. It's Italy's most planted grape variety and forms the backbone of renowned wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.

What food pairs with Sangiovese?▼

Sangiovese pairs beautifully with tomato-based dishes, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. Its natural acidity and herbaceous notes make it especially complementary to Italian cuisine and dishes with earthy flavors.

How does Sangiovese age?▼

Sangiovese ages gracefully, transforming from bright red fruit character to more complex dried cherry, leather, and earthy notes. The wine develops greater depth and spice complexity over time while maintaining its characteristic structure.

Is Sangiovese similar to Nebbiolo?▼

While both are noble Italian red grapes, Sangiovese is generally more approachable with brighter cherry fruit and less tannin intensity than Nebbiolo. Sangiovese tends to be more food-friendly and accessible in its youth compared to the more structured and age-demanding Nebbiolo.