Walla Walla Wine Cellar

Justin is back this week. Valentine’s Day has passed and we’re moving from France to Italy. We’ll let you ponder whether this is the right time to make that move or not.

Sangiovese: One in five vines in Italy are planted to some sort of the Sangiovese grape. As the major component of what everyone knows as Chianti, Sangiovese’s roots stem from the Tuscany region of Northern/Central Italy. The wines can range from light and delicate like some of those from Chianti to bold and full-bodied like the great Brunello’s of Montalcino. Sangiovese can be very long lived and makes for a wonderful food wine on all levels. There are plantings in many places, especially In Washington and California. A good number of the American examples tend to lack some the depth and flavors of their Italian counterparts, but progress is being made. Sangiovese seems to have found a good home in Washington and should continue to improve.

Here in the Cellar we love a good Sangiovese! We see no reason why this varietal should not continue to improve in availability. And we certainly have faith in our winemakers to keep up the good work.

Some of our favorites are K Vintners 2005 Guido (super low availability!!!), a cult favorite, and the always pleasant Yellow Hawk Cellars 2003 Sangiovese.

We are also super excited about the upcoming release of the Helix Sangiovese. This Spring! Yeah! And don’t forget that yummy yummy Walla Walla Vintners Sangiovese. (Boy, we’re spoiled here in Walla Walla.)

Ciao.