Originally published on April 28, 2008.
OH SAY CAN YOU SANGIOVESE
You may have heard of Brunello di Montalcino. You have almost certainly heard of Chianti. But did you know that the main grape variety in both wines is Sangiovese? Or that Sangiovese vines can be found beyond Italian soil? Well, now you know. With this 3-Pack you can give this undercover grape a try.
Sonnino 2006 (Chianti Montespertoli DOCG, Italy)
Classic Chianti = classic Sangiovese = dried tart cherries, dusty tea leaves, medium body and lip-smacking acidity. Chianti is a food-loving wine, so be sure to drink it with some – Italian is the natural choice.
Girasole Vineyards Sangiovese 2005 (Mendocino, California)
Sangiovese, California-style. The wine has a touch of earthiness, but it primarily offers up bright, clean cherry fruit. You wouldn’t mistake if for Italian, but it’s lovable in its own right.
Mocali 2006 (Rosso di Montalcino DOC, Italy)
In the Montalcino region, Sangiovese is known as ‘Brunello’ (‘little dark one’) or ‘Sangiovese Grosso’ (big’ Sangiovese’). And Brunello di Montalcino is big-time, big-money Italian wine. Try a little taste of it (without the big bucks) in the region’s younger, more approachable Rossos. This version of Sangiovese is fuller-bodied, more earthy, with darker fruits and bigger, silky tannins.
Disturbing Fact: The name ‘sangiovese’ derives from sanguis Jovis, “the blood of Jove”. Drink up!!!