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History Of Sangiovese

The history of Sangiovese grapes started in Tuscany, Italy where the grapes originated and where even today they are the most popular Variety of Wine Grapes grown there. It is thought that during the late eighteen-hundreds Italian immigrants introduced Sangiovese grapes to California. Much like Napa Merlot Wines and Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon Wines, Californian Sangiovese wines are also very popular. This is largely due to the fact that California's climate is very similar to that of the Tuscany region, making it ideal for growing Sangiovese Grapes.

The history of Sangiovese tells us that Sanguis Jovis is the Latin name for this grape variety and it literally means "blood of Jove". The first literary reference to Sangiovese grapes appeared in 1722, the same year Sangiovese grapes are believed to have originated in Tuscany.

Throughout much of the history of Sangiovese, this grape has been used in the production of Chianti Wines. The basic blend of Chianti was established in the 1890's by Baron Ricasoli and is comprised of 70% Sangiovese along with 15% Canaiolo and 15% Trebbiano. Since then, most vineyards in Italy have been planted with Sangiovese grapes which are sometimes referred to as Chianti Grapes. Don't be confused though, they are in fact the same grape.

There are 14 separate and distinctive clones of Sangiovese and at one point during the history of Sangiovese there was an attempt in Italy to identify two separate families of Sangiovese, Grosso and Piccolo. This attempt was mostly driven by commercial greed though and was not backed by much evidence. Eventually, the interest waned and nothing more has become of it.

Although the history of Sangiovese Wines dates back nearly three centuries it is still a very popular choice of wine today. (see also Sangiovese Wine Recommendations)