Top 5 Australian Sangiovese
Sangiovese in Australia
Sangiovese is a dark skinned red grape native to Italy, most famous as the grape of Chianti, as well as the highly-regarded Brunello di Montalcino. It is the most planted variety in all of Italy. It is a slow and late ripener, suited for a moderate to hot climate.
There are lots of reasons to plant alternative varieties in Australia, from regional suitability, to consumer interest and of course climate change. Sangiovese in particular has a lot to offer. It does well in warm climates, and grows on a range of soil types
Who makes Australian Sangiovese?
Planted in Australia in the 1970s struggled over the years with inferior clones planted, made in more shiraz style and lack of awareness from consumers. There are currently over 250 producers in Australia working with Sangiovese. These are our top 5:
5. Freeman Sangiovese
One of the really exciting producers operating in the Hilltops, NSW, Freeman have a range of Italian grapes growing and some fantastic tasting wines. Their Sangiovese is concentrated and herbal, a really delicious example.
4. Tar & Roses Sangiovese
Tar and Roses, work with a number of Italian varieties in Heathcote. They produce a wine that is the Platonic ideal of Sangiovese, equal to their other stellar wines.
3. Crittenden Estate Pinocchio Sangiovese
Crittenden estate have long had small ‘families’ of wines: roughly grouped Spanish, Italian and French grapes among others. This is a lighter style Sangiovese with great savoury and sour cherry character.
2. Penfolds Cellar Reserve Sangiovese
A great example of what an iconic producer can do with different grapes in the Barossa. Expect to see more Sangiovese from the Barossa in future as producers follow Penfolds’ lead.
1. Castanga La Chiave Sangiovese
The Castagna family operate a biodynamic winery in Beechworth and are no strangers to experimentation. With two delicious Sangiovese wines, La Chiave and Un Segreto, they really are championing this variety.
Read about other alternative varieties like Nebbiolo in Australia or Fiano in Australia and look out for upcoming articles about Australian Sangiovese.
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I would love to try these 5 side by side.
The Tar&Roses I know best and it’s fantastic value