What is the primary red grape variety of Tuscany?

• A. Sangiovese
• B. Nebbiolo
• C. Aglianico
• D. Montepulciano

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is recognizing the grape that defines Tuscany’s red wines. Sangiovese is central to Tuscany, serving as the backbone of legendary wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. It thrives in the region’s climate, delivering bright acidity and moderate tannins that help the wines age gracefully, with flavors that often include cherry, red plum, herbs, and earth. In Brunello di Montalcino, the grape is frequently called Sangiovese Grosso, underscoring its importance and ability to produce structure and longevity. Nebbiolo is associated with Piedmont, not Tuscany. Aglianico hails from southern Italy, especially Basilicata and Campania. Montepulciano appears as a name in Tuscany and in wines made from that grape, but it’s not the defining red variety of the region.