Are you new to the world of wine and curious about the amazing flavors and aromas of Sangiovese wine? Do you want to learn the basics of tasting and pairing this Italian varietal? Look no further! This Sangiovese Wine 101 guide will teach you the basics of tasting and pairing Sangiovese, so you can enjoy this classic Italian classic like a pro!

What Is Sangiovese Wine?

When it comes to Italian wines, Sangiovese is one of the most popular and widely recognized varietals in the world. The name Sangiovese is derived from the Latin term 'sanguis Jovis', which means 'blood of Jupiter'. This is fitting, as Sangiovese wines often have a deep ruby color and a rich, fruity flavor.

Sangiovese wines are most commonly produced in the Tuscany region of Italy, where the climate and soil are ideal for cultivating this varietal. In addition to its popularity in Italy, Sangiovese is also grown in other parts of the world, such as California, Australia, and South Africa.

How to Taste Sangiovese Wine

Tasting Sangiovese wine is a great way to explore the flavors and aromas of this popular Italian varietal. To properly taste a Sangiovese wine, follow these steps:

Step 1: Look

First, take a look at the wine. Notice the color, clarity, and depth of the liquid. Is it a deep ruby color or a lighter shade of pink? Does it have a clear or cloudy appearance? Does it look light or dark?

Step 2: Swirl

Next, swirl the wine in your glass. This will release the aromas of the wine, allowing you to better appreciate the flavor. As you swirl the wine, notice the thickness of the liquid and the type of legs that form on the sides of the glass.

Step 3: Smell

Now, take a few deep breaths and take in the aromas of the wine. Do you detect any fruity or spicy notes? How about floral or earthy aromas?

Step 4: Taste

Finally, take a sip of the wine and let it linger on your tongue. As you taste the wine, pay attention to the texture, acidity, tannins, and sweetness.

How to Pair Sangiovese Wine

Pairing Sangiovese wine with food is a great way to enhance the flavor of both the wine and the dish. Here are some tips for pairing Sangiovese with food:

Tomato-Based Dishes

Sangiovese wines are usually dry and acidic, which makes them the perfect accompaniment to tomato-based dishes. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the tomatoes, creating a balanced flavor. Try pairing Sangiovese with classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs or a classic Margherita pizza.

Pungent Cheeses

Sangiovese wines are also a great match for pungent cheeses, such as blue cheese and goat cheese. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the strong flavor of the cheese, creating a harmonious pairing. Try pairing Sangiovese with a blue cheese and walnut salad or a creamy goat cheese tart.

Rich Meat Dishes

Sangiovese wines are a great match for rich meat dishes, such as beef, pork, and lamb. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced flavor. Try pairing Sangiovese with a classic beef Bolognese or a pork shoulder braised in red wine.

Grilled Vegetables

Sangiovese wines also pair nicely with grilled vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. The acidity of the wine helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a flavorful pairing. Try pairing Sangiovese with a grilled vegetable ratatouille or a grilled vegetable pizza.

Chocolate Desserts

Sangiovese wines also pair nicely with chocolate desserts. The acidity of the wine helps to cut through the richness of the chocolate, creating a balanced flavor. Try pairing Sangiovese with a classic chocolate cake or a dark chocolate mousse.

Conclusion

Learning the basics of tasting and pairing Sangiovese wine is a great way to explore the flavors and aromas of this popular Italian varietal. Whether youre pairing Sangiovese with tomato-based dishes, pungent cheeses, rich meat dishes, grilled vegetables, or chocolate desserts, this guide will help you create delicious pairings that are sure to impress your friends and family. So pour yourself a glass of Sangiovese and enjoy the amazing flavors of this Italian classic!