Aussies are beginning to explore wines beyond their traditional favourites such as Shiraz, stepping out of their comfort zone and trying out exciting new varieties. For Italian varietals, Prosecco has been the dominant player in the Australian wine market, however, one wine that’s starting to turn a few heads is Sangiovese. Originating from the southern parts of Italy, Sangiovese is a slow-maturing red grape variety that has found a promising home in Australia’s Mediterranean wine regions.

History of the fruit

Back in its home country, Sangiovese is the most prominent Italian grape variety, covering roughly 10% of all vineyard plantings. The much-loved Italian red made its way into Australia in the 1970’s, nestling into the Kalimna vineyard at Penfolds. Sangiovese didn’t really take off, however, until it fell into the hands of Mark Lloyd of Coriole Vineyards. Lloyd experimented with the grape, recognizing its potential to thrive in the Australian climate. His innovative efforts showcased the adaptability and promise of Sangiovese in Australia’s diverse wine regions.

1999 saw the inaugural edition of the Australian Sangiovese Awards, where the competition was filled with 28 Australian Sangiovese’s. It should come as no surprise that Mark Lloyd took home the gold. This event sparked a significant step forward for the Sangiovese variety, highlighting its acceptance in the Australian wine scene. Fast forward to 2024, Sangiovese has found its home in a variety of vineyards across Australia. The Italian red thrives in moderate to warm climates and is commonly found in regions such as McLaren Vale, King Valley, and the Barossa Valley.

What are the Characteristics of Sangiovese

Sangiovese is known for its dry and medium-bodied profile, accompanied by a firm tannin structure and high acidity. The best Sangiovese wines often strike a harmonious balance between vibrant dark fruit flavours and earthy notes such as tobacco and dried herbs, resulting in a more complex and layered profile.

A distinct aspect of the Sangiovese grape is its ability to reflect the terroir that it was grown in, which allows winemakers to craft unique, nuanced wines. Factors such as the soil, climate, and altitude all play a role in refining the Sangiovese’s character. When grown in warmer climates, the grapes ripen more fully and deliver stronger fruit expressions. On the other hand, cooler climates slow the ripening process and therefore results in wines with higher acidity and subtle fruit expressions. 

Mike’s Refreshing Twist on the Italian Favourite

Lighter wines, such as rosés and champagne have been gaining popularity in recent years as wine drinkers look towards more refreshing options. This trend has inspired many winemakers to experiment with innovative variations of traditional wines.

Mike Press, the head winemaker at Pressed Wines, decided to take a bold step and create a Sangiovese Rosé. His innovative approach involves utilising the vibrant fruit characteristics of Sangiovese to produce a refreshing and elegant rosé that stands out from the crowd.

By embracing the inherent qualities of Sangiovese, Mike has managed to create a dry rosé wine that appeals to both traditional wine enthusiasts and those looking for something new and invigorating. The 2024 Sangiovese Rosé from Pressed Wines is perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day or pairing with a wide range of dishes, from light salads and seafood to more robust Mediterranean cuisine.

So, the next time you’re reaching for that old-time favourite, challenge yourself and introduce your palate to exciting new flavours!