Photo by VIVC - Vitis International Variety Catalogue
Description
Sangiovese is the Italian red grape behind Chianti. Brunello and Morellino are among its many local names. It forms very large bunches of large berries, and although its wines can be of very high quality, the vine crops heavily and easily overcrops. Smaller-fruited clones have been selected for better wine quality.
Characteristics
Red wine grape; very large bunches; large berries; high vigour and high yields; prone to overcropping; smaller-berried clones exist; early budbreak; late harvest; relatively cold-tender
Growing Tips
Sangiovese is one of the first varieties to break bud, so spring frost is a real risk; avoid low-lying sites. It is relatively cold-tender in winter too, and Texas and North Carolina guides treat it with caution for that reason. It is vigorous and high-yielding, with a tendency to overcrop. Harvest is late.