Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the most widely-planted grape variety in Italy and is responsible for some of the country’s best and most famous wines - Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino spring to mind. Its home is in the central regions, especially Tuscany, but the quality of the wine it produces varies enormously. The very best examples from top producers and famous areas may cost hundreds of pounds a bottle and evolve over many years, while the very worst are cheap and forgettable. When done well Sangiovese has a plummy fruit flavour and a definite savoury character which makes it perfect for the Tuscan cuisine.