SANGIOVESE BLEND
Rustic Charm With a Polished Edge
Sangiovese Blends bring together the bright acidity and red-fruited elegance of Sangiovese with the depth, body, or smoothness of complementary grapes. Whether in traditional Chianti Classico or modern Super Tuscans, these blends showcase the versatility of Italy’s flagship grape. By adding grapes like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Colorino, winemakers create wines that balance tradition with innovation—ranging from fresh and food-friendly to bold and cellar-worthy.
Key Characteristics
These blends are typically medium to full-bodied with high acidity and moderate tannins. Sangiovese leads with cherry and earth, while blending partners may add plush fruit, darker tones, or structure, depending on the style.
Style
Still, red
Body
Medium to full
Acidity
High
Primary Grapes
Sangiovese (blended with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Canaiolo, Colorino, Syrah, others)
Typical Flavors
Cherry, plum, dried herbs, leather, graphite, blackcurrant, spice
Origin & History
Sangiovese Blends have long been part of Tuscan winemaking tradition. In Chianti, native grapes like Canaiolo and Colorino were historically used to soften Sangiovese’s edges. In the 1970s and '80s, producers began blending Sangiovese with international varieties—especially Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon—creating the “Super Tuscan” movement that revolutionized Italian wine. These blends, often outside DOC rules at the time, proved Sangiovese could produce world-class wines when paired creatively.
How It’s Made
Sangiovese and its blending partners are typically vinified separately and then combined to achieve the desired balance of acidity, structure, and fruit. Aging varies: traditional blends may use large neutral casks, while Super Tuscans often see aging in small French oak barrels for added richness and polish.
Notable Regions
Sangiovese Blends are most iconic in Tuscany, but the style appears throughout central Italy and beyond:
Italy
Chianti Classico DOCG
Sangiovese blended with native grapes; fresh, savory, and food-friendly
Italy
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
Blends with Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and local varieties; structured and elegant
Italy
Toscana IGT
Super Tuscans
Modern blends with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah; rich, smooth, and age-worthy
Italy
Maremma
Southern Tuscany
Ripe, generous styles with international flair
United States
California
Washington
New World versions blending Sangiovese with bold reds; fruit-forward and accessible
Food Pairings
Sangiovese Blends shine with rustic and flavorful dishes that play off their acidity and savory undertones.
Pasta
Spaghetti alla puttanesca, baked ziti, mushroom ravioli
Meats
Roast pork, meatballs, grilled lamb
Cheeses
Aged Pecorino, Fontina, Parmigiano-Reggiano
Vegetarian
Eggplant Parmesan, lentil stew, Tuscan bean dishes
How to Serve It
Glassware
Universal red wine glass or Chianti-style bowl to showcase aromatics
Temperature
60–65°F (16–18°C)
Storage
Store on its side in a cool, dark place; age range varies—drink now to 10–15 years for top Super Tuscans
Fun Fact
The term “Super Tuscan” was coined in the 1980s for high-quality Sangiovese blends that didn’t follow DOC rules—many of which now command prices on par with top Bordeaux.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of red blends that express both regional identity and international vision.
Gagliole
A boutique Tuscan estate blending tradition and elegance in refined wines like Valletta, crafted with precision and depth.
Long Shadows Vintners
A visionary Washington State project pairing global winemaking talent with Columbia Valley terroir to produce expressive, world-class blends like Saggi.
Poggio Argentiera
A coastal Maremma producer known for vibrant, terroir-driven expressions of Sangiovese, including the bold Capatosta and fresh Morellino di Scansano.
Poggio Argentiera
A standout in Maremma, crafting expressive, terroir-driven Sangiovese like their vibrant Morellino di Scansano, marked by freshness, red fruit, and Mediterranean charm.
Recommended Pours
Gagliole - Valletta 2016 — A refined Tuscan blend of Sangiovese and Merlot with dark cherry, spice, and silky, integrated tannins.
Long Shadows Vintners, Saggi, Red Blend, 2018 — A sleek Washington State red with Italian flair, offering ripe black fruit, savory herbs, and polished structure.
Poggio Argentiera - Poggioargentiera Capatosta Tuscan Igt 2020 — A bold, characterful Sangiovese-driven wine with earthy depth, wild berries, and Tuscan warmth.
Poggio Argentiera - Poggioargentiera Morellino Di Scansano 2021 — A fresh and vibrant coastal Sangiovese with juicy red fruit, floral notes, and a touch of Mediterranean spice.