The king of Tuscan wine is undoubtedly the Sangiovese grape. This grape variety is the backbone of many famous and highly regarded wines from the region. One such wine is Brunello di Montalcino, which is made from 100% Sangiovese. This wine is often considered the pinnacle of Tuscan winemaking, renowned for its elegance, complexity, and ability to age beautifully.
Brunello di Montalcino is produced in the picturesque town of Montalcino, located in the heart of Tuscany. The unique microclimate and terroir of this region play a significant role in shaping the character of the wine. The Sangiovese grapes grown here benefit from the warm Mediterranean climate, with hot days and cool nights, which helps to develop the grapes' flavors and acidity.
What sets Brunello di Montalcino apart from other Tuscan wines is its strict production regulations. The wine must be aged for a minimum of five years, with at least two years in oak barrels. This extended aging process allows the wine to develop a rich and complex bouquet of aromas, including red and black fruits, violets, leather, and spices. On the palate, Brunello di Montalcino offers a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins, with a long and persistent finish.
While Brunello di Montalcino may be the pinnacle of Sangiovese wines, other Tuscan wines also showcase the beauty of this grape variety. Chianti, particularly Chianti Classico, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are two examples of wines that predominantly feature Sangiovese in their blends. These wines typically contain 70-85% Sangiovese, with the remaining portion made up of other local grape varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, or Merlot.
Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano offer a slightly different expression of Sangiovese compared to Brunello di Montalcino. They tend to be slightly lighter and more approachable in their youth, with vibrant acidity and flavors of red cherries, plums, and herbs. These wines are often considered more versatile for everyday enjoyment and pair well with a wide range of dishes.
As a sommelier, I have had the pleasure of tasting numerous Tuscan wines made from Sangiovese, and each one has its own unique charm. Whether it's the age-worthy elegance of Brunello di Montalcino or the lively and food-friendly nature of Chianti, Sangiovese truly reigns supreme in Tuscany.
To summarize, the king of Tuscan wine is undoubtedly the Sangiovese grape. It is the foundation of renowned wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, which is considered the pinnacle of Tuscan winemaking. Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, with their majority Sangiovese blends, also showcase the beauty of this grape variety. Each wine offers its own distinct character and expression of Sangiovese, making it truly the king of Tuscany wine.