2013 Sangiovese Seghesio Vineyards

This Sangiovese was a learning experience, because I was unaware that California grew and produced Chianti wines. When I think of California varietals, its Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and lighter whites. Dang! A good wine can be a teacher of new experiences. Here is a clone from the Chianti grape imported into California from Italy almost 80 years ago. This Sangiovese is a richer, more fruity wine than Italian Chianti, which demonstrate acidity, pepper and heavy oak tannin. Also, worth noting, this winemaker prepared this wine for long-term storage with a genuine cork. Then, those old heavy red wine Chianti dubious doubts vanished with the first taste. This Sangiovese nose is fruity: black cherry. Its’ color is the consistent dark red along with thick, long legs on the glass. First taste was of mineral, then black licorice. More tasting found currant, plumb, and chocolate. Needless to say, we finished the bottle, and we enjoyed its smooth, light cinnamon tannin finish. The only thing not to like was its empty bottle. Here is a versatile wine that will fit with nice dinners, serve to guests, gift at parties, or drink the whole darn bottle yourself.