Italian Wine Month 6-pack Sampler #2 - There's More To Sangiovese Than Chianti

Felsina "Pagliarese" Chianti Classico (Tuscany) - Chianti Classico is the historic heartland of the Chianti region and is known for producing some of the most classic expressions of Sangiovese. TThe 2020 Pagliarese Chianti Classico is a beautifully classic expression of Sangiovese from the Berardenga sub-region. It pours a vibrant ruby red, immediately inviting with its fresh and delicate aromas of ripe red cherry, wild forest berry, and cranberry. On the nose, one also finds nuanced, savory undertones of dried herbs, tomato leaf, and a distinct earthy minerality, while a subtle floral hint of violet adds to the complexity. On the palate, the wine is elegant and medium-bodied, with a warm and inviting texture supported by vibrant acidity. Its fine-grained tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth feel that leads to a savory, lingering finish. Overall, this wine is a testament to traditional winemaking, offering finesse and terroir-driven character without relying on overt power.

Tre Monti "Campo di Mezzo" Sangiovese (Romagna) -  Sangiovese from this region, often labeled as Sangiovese di Romagna, tends to be fruitier and more approachable in its youth compared to its Tuscan cousins. Tre Monti is a highly regarded producer in Romagna, known for its dedication to Sangiovese. They are considered one of the leading estates in the region, focusing on a more modern style that emphasizes fruit purity and a clean expression of the grape.  The nose is bursting with primary fruit aromas like fresh red cherries, red currants, and wild strawberries, with a subtle floral note of violet. The palate medium-bodied with bright acidity and softer, less aggressive tannins than a Chianti and flavors that echo the bold fruit of the aromatics. 

Piaggia "Pietranera" Carmignano (Tuscany): Piaggia is an esteemed producer in the Carmignano sub-zone of Tuscany. Intense and thick ruby red color. Complex on the nose, reminiscent of fruits of the forest jam, sweet spices, thyme and cocoa. Full-bodied. Excellent balance between alcohol and polyalcohol, acids and tannins, with a persistent finish and a pleasant sweet, fresh and fruity follow-through. It goes well with mature cheeses, red meat and game.

Arnaldo Caprai Montefalco Rosso (Umbria): Montefalco Rosso is a blend, not a pure Sangiovese. By law, it must be 60–80% Sangiovese, with the rest being a mix of other red grapes, including the region's star, Sagrantino. Arnaldo Caprai is arguably the most famous producer in the Montefalco region and is largely credited with elevating the status of the local Sagrantino grape. On the nose, look for aromas of red plum, black cherry, and blackberry, with savory notes of dried herbs, earth, and a hint of game or leather from the Sagrantino. The palate is medium to full-bodied with a different tannin profile, denser and more rustic than Sangiovese from Tuscany with bright acidity and a finish that is long and savory. 

Altesino Rosso Di Montalcino (Tuscany):  Rosso di Montalcino is often called "baby Brunello" because it's made from 100% Sangiovese Grosso in the same area as the famous Brunello di Montalcino. A brilliant ruby red, immediately inviting with lifted aromas of ripe strawberries, red currants, and candied flowers. Hints of tangerine zest and sweet herbs add aromatic complexity, while subtle notes of menthol and orange peel lend a cool, savory edge. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and silky, with velvety tannins and vibrant acidity that keep the wine fresh and engaging. The fruit-forward core—dominated by dark cherries and blackberries—is balanced by earthy undertones of leather and mesquite, giving it a graceful structure and a savory, lingering finish. It’s approachable now, but has enough precision and lift to evolve over the next 5–6 years.