Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo

Attribute	Sangiovese	Tempranillo
Origin	Tuscany, Italy	Spain
Primary Regions	Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino	Rioja, Ribera del Duero
Flavor Profile	Cherry, plum, earthy	Strawberry, plum, tobacco
Body	Medium to full-bodied	Medium to full-bodied
Tannins	Firm tannins	Medium to high tannins
Acidity	High acidity	Medium to high acidity

Origin

Sangiovese is a red Italian wine grape variety that is most commonly associated with the Tuscany region. It is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy and is the backbone of famous wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. On the other hand, Tempranillo is a red grape variety that is native to Spain and is the main grape used in the production of Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines.

Flavor Profile

Sangiovese is known for its bright acidity, moderate tannins, and flavors of cherry, plum, and earthy notes. It can also exhibit herbal and floral aromas, depending on the region and winemaking techniques. Tempranillo, on the other hand, is characterized by its bold fruit flavors of cherry, plum, and strawberry, along with notes of tobacco, leather, and vanilla. It tends to have a smoother texture and softer tannins compared to Sangiovese.

Climate and Terroir

Sangiovese thrives in warm, dry climates with plenty of sunlight, which is why it is so well-suited to the Mediterranean climate of Tuscany. The grape is also highly influenced by the soil types in which it is grown, with different regions producing wines with distinct characteristics. Tempranillo, on the other hand, prefers a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. It is often grown in limestone-rich soils, which contribute to its mineral and earthy notes.

Ageability

Sangiovese wines are known for their ability to age gracefully, developing more complex flavors and aromas over time. High-quality Sangiovese wines from top producers can age for decades, with some Brunello di Montalcino wines reaching their peak after 20-30 years. Tempranillo wines also have good aging potential, especially those from top Rioja producers. The best Tempranillo wines can age for 10-20 years, with some Gran Reserva wines lasting even longer.

Food Pairing

Sangiovese wines are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. Their high acidity and moderate tannins make them a great match for a wide range of dishes, from tomato-based pasta sauces to grilled meats and aged cheeses. Tempranillo wines also pair well with a variety of foods, thanks to their fruit-forward flavors and balanced acidity. They are particularly well-suited to Spanish cuisine, such as paella, tapas, and roasted lamb.

Popularity and Availability

Sangiovese is one of the most popular grape varieties in Italy and is widely planted throughout the country. It is also gaining popularity in other wine regions around the world, such as California and Australia. Tempranillo, on the other hand, is primarily grown in Spain, with the majority of production concentrated in the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions. However, Tempranillo is also gaining recognition in other countries, such as Portugal and Argentina.