Sangiovese and cost-effective wines

Sangiovese is a red wine grape variety that is widely grown in Italy, especially in Tuscany. It is considered to be one of the most important and popular grape varieties in the country, and it is known for producing wines that are bold, complex, and full of flavor.

 

One of the most distinctive characteristics of Sangiovese is its high acidity, which gives the wine a tart, refreshing quality. This acidity also helps to balance the wine's high tannin levels, which can make it taste quite astringent and bitter when it is young. As Sangiovese wines age, however, the tannins become softer and more mellow, allowing the fruit flavors to come to the forefront.

 

Speaking of fruit flavors, Sangiovese is often described as having a profile that is both fruity and savory. Common fruit notes include cherry, strawberry, and plum, while savory flavors can include tobacco, leather, and earthy undertones. Sangiovese is also known for its strong herbal and floral aromas, which can range from dried herbs and rose petals to violet and lavender.

 

Here are five Sangiovese wines that are both delicious and budget-friendly, all priced at under $20

• Ruffino Chianti - This is a classic Sangiovese wine from the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. It has a medium body with notes of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of spice. It pairs well with pizza and pasta dishes. Priced around $12.

Ruffino Chianti

• Piccini Chianti - Another Chianti from Tuscany, this wine is made from 80% Sangiovese grapes and 20% other red varietals. It has a fresh and fruity flavor profile, with notes of red berries and a touch of pepper. Priced around $10.

• Falesco Vitiano Rosso - This Italian red blend features Sangiovese as the primary grape, blended with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a bold and robust flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit and spice. It pairs well with grilled meats and hearty stews. Priced around $15.

• Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico - A slightly more premium option, this Chianti Classico offers a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. It has notes of cherry, blackberry, and a touch of leather. It pairs well with roasted meats and aged cheeses. Priced around $20.

• DaVinci Chianti - This Sangiovese-based wine from Tuscany has a medium body with notes of red berries and a hint of spice. It is versatile enough to pair with a wide range of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats. Priced around $10.

Here are 10 fantastic pairings that perfectly match the characteristics of Sangiovese wines

1. Margherita Pizza: The classic Margherita pizza with its tangy tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella is a perfect pairing for Sangiovese's bright acidity and herbaceous notes.
2. Tomato-Based Pasta Dishes: Sangiovese wines pair exceptionally well with tomato-based pasta dishes, such as spaghetti with tomato sauce or lasagna, due to their bold fruit flavors and high acidity.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Sangiovese's bold flavors and robust tannins are a perfect complement to the earthy and smoky flavors of roasted vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini.
4. Grilled Meats: The bold and complex flavors of Sangiovese wines pair well with grilled meats like lamb, beef, and pork.
5. Salumi Platter: A salumi platter with cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni is a perfect match for the bold and complex flavors of Sangiovese.
6. Mushroom Risotto: The earthy and umami flavors of a mushroom risotto dish are a perfect complement to the robust tannins and bright fruit flavors of Sangiovese.
7. Tuscan Bean Soup: Sangiovese wines pair exceptionally well with hearty soups like Tuscan bean soup, which has a rich and savory flavor that complements the wine's bold flavors.
8. Grilled Eggplant: The smoky and charred flavors of grilled eggplant are a perfect match for the bold and complex flavors of Sangiovese.
9. Parmesan Cheese: Sangiovese's robust tannins and bright acidity are a perfect complement to the nutty and salty flavors of Parmesan cheese.
10. Dark Chocolate: The rich and intense flavors of dark chocolate perfectly complement the bold and complex flavors of Sangiovese, making for a delicious dessert pairing.