When it comes to Italian wine, there are two main types: Sangiovese vs Chianti.
Both wines are made with grapes from the same region of Italy, but they have different flavors and textures.
So, which one should you choose?
In this blog post, we’ll compare Sangiovese and Chianti and help you decide which is the best wine for you.
Sangiovese vs Chinati: Which to choose?
With so many things in common between these two red wines, how can you know what the differences are?
Here’s how to keep track of these two wines which really are distinct from one another.
Sangiovese
Sangiovese is one of the most important grape varieties in Italy, with a long history dating back hundreds of years.
This hearty varietal produces bold red wine that is prized for its complex fruit flavors and intense acidity.
It’s primarily grown in Tuscany, where it has long been associated with traditional local dishes such as pasta alla Fiorentina or peposo.
The perfect pairing for savory meats, Sangiovese wines show off their full flavor and great body on the palate.
Whether you are enjoying a glass at your local wine bar or cooking dinner in your own kitchen, there is no better accompaniment than a glass of this delicious wine.
So the next time that you want to celebrate life’s simple pleasures, reach for a bottle of Sangiovese.
Chianti
Chianti is a type of red wine that originated in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is produced using a blend of different grape varietals, including Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo.
This combination of grapes gives Chianti its distinct flavor profile, which is characterized by notes of ripe fruit, herbs, and spice.
In addition to its complex flavor profile, Chianti has earned a reputation for being hearty and robust.
Thanks to this quality, Chianti pairs well with a wide range of dishes and can be enjoyed both at mealtime and with time spent with friends and family.
Whether served alongside a traditional Italian feast or paired with a small bite while sitting outdoors on a beautiful day, Chianti is sure to delight the senses and win over the hearts of any wine lover.
So if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Italy paired with remarkable flavor, be sure to add chianti to your next shopping list.
Sangiovese Vs Chianti: the differences
While Sangiovese can produce wines with a wide range of flavors and aromas, it is typically characterized by notes of cherries, strawberries, and earth.
Chianti is a red wine made from a blend of Sangiovese and other grapes, but the exact composition of the blend varies depending on the sub-region where the wine is produced.
In general, wines from the Classico region are made predominantly from Sangiovese, while wines from the Superiore region may contain up to 20% Sangiovese.
Wines labeled as “Chianti Riserva” must be aged for at least two years before release.
Sangiovese grapes are also used for wines like Barolo.
With all this in mind, here are some more important distinctions between Sangiovese and Chianti wines.
Read our related article on Chianti vs Merlot where we compare these two delectable wines!
Body
First, Sangiovese is typically lighter in the body than Chianti. This makes it a good choice for enjoying on its own, or with lighter fare such as grilled fish or salads.
Chianti, on the other hand, is fuller-bodied and pairs well with heartier dishes such as pasta with red sauce or grilled meats.
Flavor profile
Sangiovese wines tend to be more fruit-forward than chianti, with noticeable notes of cherry and strawberry.
Chianti, on the other hand, often has more complex flavors of leather and tobacco. Chianti often has a higher alcohol content as well.
Other Factors To Consider when choosing between Sangiovese and Chianti
So if you are going to pick between the two wines, here are some additional factors to consider.
Aging Potential
Aging potential is an important consideration for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Some wines tend to be better suited for long-term aging than others, due to the naturally high levels of tannins, sugar compounds, acids, and other compounds found in different varietals.
Sangiovese is typically a younger, fruitier grape variety that does not have great aging potential.
But Chianti tends to be rich in tannins and other compounds that can help preserve it over time.
As a result, Sangiovese will typically develop optimal flavor complexity after only a few years of aging.
For wine lovers who want to enjoy their bottles at their best, it is important to seek out those with good aging potential, such as Chianti.
With proper care and storage, a good Chianti can be enjoyed for many years to come!
Price Point
Sangiovese and Chianti wines are both made from Sangiovese grapes, but there are some important differences between the two.
For one, Sangiovese is typically a bit cheaper than Chianti. This is because Sangiovese is less labor-intensive to produce and doesn’t need to age for as long.
conclusion
So, when choosing between Sangiovese and Chianti, it really depends on what you’re looking for in a wine.
If you’re seeking a complex and full-bodied red wine with a lengthy flavor profile, then Sangiovese is an excellent choice.
However, if you’re looking for a more versatile red wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of different dishes, then Chianti might be the better option.