2009 Santa Cristina Sangiovese hails from Tuscany, and a blend  Sangiovese (85%), Merlot (10%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (5%).  Sangiovese has a reputation for being somewhat difficult to predict.  There are two reasons for this. First, the old favorite of old world wines, terroir (or the wonderful catch-all for soil, planting location, and so many other vineyard factors), and second, sangiovese is sometimes referred to as having ‘clones’.  This clones are still sangiovese, but they’re all slightly different, and as such have different potential in making wine.  These variations combined with small changes in Tuscany’s climate create wide variations in the wines that are produced using sangiovese.

While sangiovese has it’s own character, if often gets by with a little help from it’s friends; merlot and cabernet sauvignon.

Sight:  A light magneta hue runs the edge of this wine, a garnet color when the glass is filled.

Smell:  There’s a pleasant earthy note that runs through the wine, but it plays back-up to a mix of not-quite-ripe cherries and currants, light oak and subtle green pepper play supporting characters.

Sip:  Fresh cherries and cranberries lead with notes of wet stone and very light coffee.  The mouth feel of the wine is somewhat thin.  Somewhat like a one-hit band, this wine doesn’t get very complex. [ABV 13%]

Savor:  Tannins are subtle, and the wine leaves a sour pucker, somewhat like cranberry-cherry cocktail.

2009 Santa Cristina Sangiovese is slightly lighter, simpler, and more on the acidic side.  Much like many Italian wines, it is really meant to be drank with food, and will change significantly based on the meal.  Pasta is probably the best choice, but some leaner meats may also pair well.

Price: $6.95
Toscana, Italy