Essential Guide to Sangiovese
This month, we are celebrating Sangiovese. This classic Italian red is a delight to the eye and to the palate, pairing perfectly with a range of foods. An elegant and pleasantly balanced wine is welcome in this season of transition from summer heat to autumn crispness. This week, we are sharing essential information about Sangiovese for wine novices and connoisseurs alike.
Cal-Ital Identity
Long before we grafted Sangiovese into our Estate Vineyard, this old-world workhorse of a wine has been enjoyed globally for its medium tannins, delightful acidity, and fullness of bright, luscious red fruit. Sangiovese is the core component of Chianti Classico, growing prolifically in its home region of Tuscany and boasting the status of most planted varietal in Italy. In the US, it is much less widespread. We are proud to produce estate-grown Sangiovese right here in the Livermore Valley as part of our Cal-Ital mission. Early to bud and slow to ripen, Sangiovese grapes are tender and delicate while still resistant to drought, making them right at home in the Livermore Valley. We believe this varietal is worthy of acclaim!
Vibrant Varietal Characteristics
One feature of Sangiovese (which you will also find in Italian Chianti) is that these wines are easy to drink young, but well-crafted ones improve over 5-10 years. This varietal’s deep purple grapes produce a gorgeous red color and cherry flavors, with intriguing flavor variation determined by the growing environment. Our 2020 Riserva Sangiovese boasts notes of wild strawberry, vivacious red fruit, and a touch of lychee. A hint of black pepper peeks through on the palate, and rich cherry flavor accents the lingering finish. This vintage is very smooth, with sassy floral notes and a mid-weight palate.
Solo and Supporting Roles
Sangiovese is a very bright varietal with reliable acidity, which means it lends itself well to blending with other varieties. With the balanced elements of fruit, acid, and tannin, Sangiovese is also a pairing superstar, especially with pizza and pasta, but also with meatloaf, roast chicken, and other medium fare. From simple table wine to astonishingly elegant luxury wines, Sangiovese can do it all!
Sangiovese Pairing Inspiration
These wines are truly an absolute delight to drink, especially with food. After all, Italian wine should be enjoyed with good food! We lean toward Italian cuisine for pairing, including dishes like bruschetta, pizza, and caprese salad. Sangiovese’s food-friendliness also makes it a Charcuterie board’s best friend!
Recipes to try with Sangiovese
Bruschetta with Tuscan Peperonata
Rustic Homemade Margherita Flatbread Pizza
Cal-Italia Pizza with Prosciutto & Figs
Chicken Caprese Spaghetti Squash
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
