Sangiovese

For truly grand wines

If you love Italian wine, you’ll definitely be a fan of Sangiovese. This grape provides the basis of every Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and is considered the main grape variety of Tuscany. Chianti must consist of at least 80 per cent Sangiovese grapes, rising to 100 per cent for Brunello di Montalcino. Most of these Tuscan wines carry the coveted docg label. The regulations for this label are so rigorous that these wines, with their emphasis on acidity and tannins, are practically without exception of extremely high quality.

Where it grows:

• throughout central Italy, especially in Tuscany

• in California

• in Argentina

• in France

What it tastes like:

• fruity-spicy with notes of plums, cherries and wild berries

What it goes with:

• fine cuts of lamb, venison and beef

• braised, savoury meat dishes

• spicy cheese