Sangiovese

Sangiovese is Italy's most widely planted red grape, forming the backbone of Chianti and countless other central Italian reds, prized for its bright acidity, firm tannin, and distinctive sour-cherry character. Its name is thought to derive from sanguis Jovis, the blood of Jove, though the connection is more folklore than fact. While Tuscany remains its spiritual home, the grape has spread well beyond the region, including into warmer areas like Puglia, where riper fruit and softer tannins give it a noticeably different character. Chianti DOCG sets the benchmark for the classic, food-friendly style built around bright acidity and moderate tannin. For the grape's home region, Tuscany Wine is worth a look, and Italian Wine covers everything else on offer.