Tuscany is a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and few, but fertile plains. It has been home to some of the most influential artists and scientists. (Do the names Dante, Da Vinci and Michelangelo sound familiar?) Tuscany is not only home to beautiful countryside and historic art, but also delicious cuisine and some of the most recognized wines in Italy, such as Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Brunello di Montalcino, all of these showcasing the Sangiovese grape, the main red grape of Tuscany.

The Saggio Chianti displays very characteristic Sangiovese aromas and flavors. The nose is quite fruity, fresh red cherry and strawberry with hints of something that suggests a spring garden. Bits of that gardening soil and ripe red fruit fill the mouth with bright acidity and a pristine finish. For a wine to be labeled Chianti it must contain at least 75% Sangiovese, with up to 30% of any other approved red grape variety such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Syrah.

The Tuscan region offers such remarkable cuisine and this wine is a perfect partner for food with its bright, clean flavors. We suggest a plate of gnocchi with prosciutto, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes and spinach.