Chianti and Sangiovese are not exactly the same, but they are closely related. Chianti is a specific type of wine that is made primarily from the Sangiovese grape in the Chianti region of Italy. While all Chianti is predominantly made from Sangiovese grapes, not all wines made from Sangiovese are classified as Chianti.
Chianti is a region in Tuscany, Italy, known for producing high-quality wines. The regulations for making Chianti wines require that they be made from a minimum of 70% Sangiovese grapes. The remaining 30% can be other red grape varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, many Chianti wines are made with 100% Sangiovese grapes.
Sangiovese is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy and is the backbone of many famous Italian wines. It is a versatile grape that can produce a range of wine styles, from light and fruity to bold and structured. Sangiovese grapes have a high acidity and a tannic structure, which makes them well-suited for aging.
While Chianti is made predominantly from Sangiovese, there are other regions in Italy, such as Montalcino and Montepulciano, that also produce wines made from Sangiovese grapes. These wines are often classified under their respective regional names, such as Brunello di Montalcino or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
There are also Sangiovese wines produced outside of Italy, particularly in California and Australia. These wines may be labeled as Sangiovese or as a blend with other grape varieties. They have their own distinct characteristics, influenced by the terroir and winemaking techniques of their respective regions.
Chianti is a specific type of wine made primarily from Sangiovese grapes in the Chianti region of Italy. While all Chianti wines are predominantly Sangiovese, not all wines made from Sangiovese are classified as Chianti. Sangiovese is a versatile grape variety that is widely planted in Italy and can produce a range of wine styles.