Let's Talk Wine

Sangiovese

In the early 1890s in California  Sangiovese was known more affectionately as Chianti and was a blend of at least 70% Sangiovese with the remainder being lesser known red grape varietals.  Today, we see many wines that are 100% Sangiovese using elite, historic clones from the Brunello vineyards of Montalcino, Italy in the Tuscan region of Italy. In 1870,  Ferruccio Biondi-Santi, winemaker and vintner from the famed Brunello vineyards of Maontlcino, grew the first clone of the Sangiovese grape and called it the Brunello clone. In order to state that a Sangiovese is made using Brunello clones, those clones must have DNA from the Brunello vineyard clones. 

Sangiovese wines generally have have aromas of raspberry, strawberry and spice. The wine tends to be less tannic than other red wines, and is considered a very food friendly wine. The Martin Ranch Therese Vineyards 2006 Sangiovese is 100% Sangiovese from grapes grown on the eastern foothills of the Santa cruz Mountains and come from Fladoboe Vineyards and Dos Ninas Vineyards. These Sangiovese grapes are harvested from certified Brunello clones and aged in 100% Hungarian 500 liter casks. The color of the Therese Vineyards Sangiovese is a beautiful ruby red and on the nose you will experience hints of bright fruit, cinnamon and clove. Tasting the wine, you will find a perfectly balanced acid wine with a lush mouth feel. This wine has flavors of blueberry and vanilla and is medium bodied with a perfect acid balance. Watch the video to see more of Therese and Dan's tasting notes on their Sangiovese wine.

Come out to the Martin Ranch Winery on the 3rd weekend of the Month, when the Winery is open to the public and wine club members. We always look forward to seeing you!