Sangiovese

Red

Warm climate

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

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

Climate

Warm

Regions

4 regions

Color

Red

Typical Structure & Aromas

Typical profile for this variety. Style varies by region, climate, and winemaking.

Structure

Body

Moderate

Tannins

Firm

Sweetness

Dry

Acidity

Electric

OakCommon

Aromas

Young

red cherry plum thyme tobacco

Aged

dried cherry leather wet earth truffle

Explore the aroma wheel →

Where Sangiovese grows

France

Corsica

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

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

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

Typical→Emilia-Romagna

Tuscany

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

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

Food Pairings

Osso buco alla milanese with saffron risotto

Grilled Florentine T-bone steak with rosemary and garlic

Wild boar ragu with pappardelle pasta

Aged pecorino cheese with truffle honey and walnuts

Herb-crusted rack of lamb with roasted vegetables

Pizza margherita with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella

Want to try Sangiovese? Add it to your Discoveries and tick it off when you find the right one.

Similar to Sangiovese

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.