Sangiovese—the Tuscan varietal responsible for Chianti, Chianti Classico, age-worthy Brunello di Montalcino and many of the top Super Tuscan blends favored by collectors—is the most widely grown grape in Italy.
Known for its high acidity, Sangiovese has notes of bright red and black fruit and distinctive peppery and savory aromas. In general, the wines made from this red grape are medium- to full-bodied with medium- to full-tannins. However, Sangiovese is a chameleon, possessing the ability to express a wide range of flavors, textures and aromas, depending on where it’s grown and how it’s vinified. This has helped the varietal garner an intensely devoted fanbase across the globe.
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“Sangiovese is the best grape in the world—there, I said it,” says Wine Enthusiast Italian wine Reviewer Danielle Callegari. “And if you want to fight me, take a look at these bottles and the incredible value and diversity they offer. From the next-level attention to sustainability and quality offered by Salcheto’s Vino Nobile to the spectacularly fun, fresh Boggina A from Petrolo and the devastatingly gorgeous Sorgente expression of Salicutti’s Brunello, every one of them is a star and a steal at their price.”
As Callegari noted, the nine bottles the team rounded up below represent a wide breadth of winemaking styles that showcase the varietal’s signature acid and ability to express its terroir. From traditional Tuscans to a superb selection from Santa Barbara, these are the best Sangiovese wines on the market right now.
Salicutti 2018 Sorgente Sangiovese (Brunello di Montalcino)
Fresh and earthy on the nose, like wet soil after a rain, with salty, sanguine aromas of crushed stones and just-brewed coffee and then the restrained sweetness of black cherries on ice and balsamic vinegar reduction. Black cherry, dried figs and dark chocolate appear on the palate, with razor-sharp acid and tannins that give a slow but crushing embrace. Statuesque. 98 Points — Danielle Callegari
Le Potazzine 2018 Sangiovese (Brunello di Montalcino)
A sweet and savory nose features lighter notes of cherry, vanilla and cedar standing up to umami balsamic vinegar, olives and rocks. The palate welcomes a sour wave of dried cranberries, pomegranate and citrus before an astringent finish. This wine will make the whole table sit up straight and pay attention. Editor’s Choice. 97 Points — D.C.
Argiano 2021 Sangiovese (Rosso di Montalcino)
A fresh, salty, slightly chalky nose, like the beach in autumn, starts with wild herbs, shells and dirt, before evolving into warm, astringent aromas of dried cherries, cranberries and dark chocolate. On the rich palate, a bolder cherry streak highlights more astringent red fruit, but a deep earthiness and lingering mineral saltiness preserve a marvelous freshness. 97 Points — D.C.
Petrolo 2021 Bòggina A Sangiovese (Toscana)
Salcheto 2020 Sangiovese (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano)
The nose is defined by a delicate sweetness, as undertones of clove and orange peel bring nuance to leading aromas of vanilla and strawberry, followed by a crack of black pepper. On the palate, fruit leads the way, but a hint of that bitter, spicy element perseveres all the way through the warm, acidic finish. 94 Points — D.C.
Castello di Monsanto 2020 Monsanto Riserva Sangiovese (Chianti Classico)
Bing cherry and blood orange, potting soil, graphite and then wild herbs—especially sage—appear on the nose, before a whisper of vanilla and cedar. Juicy and fresh on the palate, with vanilla, chocolate and cherry, and then herbs emerging again on the back. A rare example of a wine with great sophistication that’s also an undeniable crowd-pleaser. 94 Points — D.C.
Castello di Bossi 2019 Gran Selezione Sangiovese (Chianti Classico)
Woodsy aromas of pine needles and underbrush blend with spices and herbs before a distinctive note of anise takes over on the nose. On the palate, herbaceous, earthy flavors remain dominant, joined by black cherries and finishing with the citric, astringent bite of orange pith. 93 Points— D.C.
Stolpman 2022 Love You Bunches Sangiovese (Santa Barbara County)
Stolpman fired up California’s chilled red scene, and this vintage brings complexity to the fun bag. Vibrant aromas of pomegranate and rose extract lead into a zesty palate that dances across the tongue with energetic glee, carrying flavors of geranium, plum and peppercorn. There are even tannins on the finish. Editor’s Choice. 93 Points — Matt Kettmann
Alexander Valley Vineyards 2022 Wetzel Family Estate dry Rosé of Sangiovese (Sonoma County)
Fresh strawberry and raspberry aromas grab the attention before nervy, tangy and refreshing red cherry and sour cherry notes pop on the palate. This light-pink-tinted wine is a lively, appetizing pour, and isn’t that what you want in a rosé? 90 Points — Jim Gordon
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