Sangiovese: history and characteristics

Sangiovese is the most widely cultivated red-grape variety in Italy and is present in many regions across the country. This grape is used both as a pure expression and to create important wine blends, such as Supertuscans.
Sangiovese is the king of Tuscan grape varieties, and Leonardo da Vinci Wines has chosen to pay homage to it. Indeed, from the grapes cultivated in the vineyards of Villa da Vinci, comes San Zio Sangiovese Toscana IGT, a mature and elegant red wine.

The origin of Italy’s most widely cultivated grape variety, as well as the origin of its name, has been studied extensively over the centuries, though not without difficulty, given that the available information is fragmentary and unreliable.
The first written records of Sangiovese date back to 1590, though it is believed that this celebrated grape was already known over 2,000 years ago. According to the most plausible theory, the grape variety was originally cultivated between the Tiber and Arno rivers by the Etruscans and subsequently spread throughout Italy, eventually finding its preferred terroirs in Tuscany, Romagna and Umbria.
Regarding the origin of the name, there are also several theories. The two most likely versions are those who believe it derives from San Giovanni – because the vine buds at the end of June, when the Saint is celebrated – and those who swear it comes from “Sanguis Jovis”, a name attributed by a monk from a convent in Santarcangelo di Romagna, near Mount Giove.

From the selection of the finest Sangiovese grapes cultivated in the vineyards of Villa da Vinci, comes a wine that reveals extraordinary varietal expressions: concentration, ripeness, elegance and remarkable aromatic integrity.

San Zio Sangiovese Toscana IGT: vinification and ageing
The grapes used for this Sangiovese Toscana IGT are harvested in the vineyards of Villa da Vinci towards the end of September. Following a skin maceration of approximately 12 days, fermentation takes place at 28°C with frequent punchings down. Subsequently, it is aged in stainless steel at controlled temperature. Finally, a brief period of 2-4 months in oak barrique is carried out to enhance its aroma, colour and aromatic complexity, whilst respecting the native fragrance of the grape.

San Zio Sangiovese Toscana IGT: tasting notes
The San Zio Sangiovese Toscana IGT is an excellent expression of Tuscan terroir and the typicity of the grape variety “Sangiovese Grosso”, as it is known in this region. This Sangiovese is an elegant and refined wine with a brilliant red colour. On the nose it releases strong floral notes; on the palate, fruity aromas emerge, including cherry, wild cherry and red fruits. The palate reveals a powerful, slightly rough tannin structure and an acidity that highlights the characteristic nervousness of this red wine. The impact on the palate is decisive, smooth and elegant.