Three colors of Sangiovese wine

Sangiovese Bianco, Sangiovese Rosato, Sangiovese Rosso

Wine is not just a drink, but also a passion, tradition and culture whose roots go back deep into human history. Wine is usually made from grapes that are suitable for the production of either white wine or red wine.

However, the term "blanc de noirs" - which translates as "white from black" - indicates that white wine can also be made from red grapes. This term and method is often used in the production of champagne, for example.

Here I would like to give an insight into how red wine, rosé and even white wine are made from red wine grapes, for example Sangiovese. This variety of wines from one type of grape offers an impressive range of flavor profiles that can appeal to the senses in different ways.

The three colors of Sangiovese: bianco, rosato, rosso

The production of red wine

Red wine made from Sangiovese, such as Chianti Classico, is undoubtedly the best-known and most sought-after variety of this grape. With its characteristic aromas of ripe cherries, black berries, spices and herbs, it embodies the essence of the Tuscan wine tradition. The production of red wine is a complex process that requires careful craftsmanship and expertise.

Production begins with the harvest of the fully ripe grapes, which are usually sweet and rich in color, tannins and aromas. The grapes are then destemmed, i.e. the stems are removed so that only the berries remain. The resulting mixture of juice, skins and seeds is called mash.

The mash is now left to rest for a longer period of time in order to extract the maximum amount of color and aroma. Alcoholic fermentation then takes place, followed by malolactic fermentation and ageing in wooden barrels to give the wine more depth and complexity. The result is a Chianti Classico of remarkable structure and elegance that captures the authenticity and flavor of Tuscany.

During alcoholic fermentation, natural yeasts convert the sugar contained in the grape juice into alcohol. During this process, the must remains in contact with the grape skins, which gives the wine its characteristic red color and is responsible for the release of tannins, which give the red wine structure and body. Alcoholic fermentation usually lasts two to three weeks. The now young wine is then pressed, i.e. the juice is separated from the skins, seeds and other solids.

This is followed by the second fermentation phase, malolactic fermentation, in which the malic acid, which is less digestible for us, is converted into the milder lactic acid. This makes the wine softer and rounder in taste. Finally, the wine is clarified, filtered and put into barrels to mature before being bottled.

A short maceration period is crucial for the rosé made from Sangiovese

The production of rosé wine

Rosé wines combine characteristics of red and white wines, which makes them a particularly interesting wine variety. The Italian name for rosé is rosato.

Rosato made from Sangiovese grapes is also known as Blush or Cerasuolo. It is characterized by its bright color and fruity aromas. This wine can be produced in different ways, whereby a distinction is usually made between the saignée method and direct pressing.

Saignée

In the saignée method, winemaking begins in a similar way to red wine production, with the grape juice remaining in contact with the skins for a few hours. During this time, the juice extracts color and aromas from the skins, but not as intensively as in red wine.

Part of the grape juice is then extracted, without any solid components. This is followed by cool fermentation to obtain fresh and light aromas.

The saignée method is a popular technique for producing rosé wines with more depth and complexity, as the must has a higher concentration of color, aromas and tannins. The result is rosés with a stronger character and a more structured texture, perfect for a variety of dishes.

Direct pressing

The grapes are often harvested earlier than usual for red wines in order to obtain fruitier aromas and fresher acidity. Immediately after the harvest, the grapes are destemmed and the must is left to stand for one to three hours to extract color and aromas. The must is then pressed and the pure liquid is sent for alcoholic fermentation.

Regardless of the production method, rosé wine made from Sangiovese grapes is a refreshing and lively taste experience. With its notes of raspberries, strawberries and watermelon and its lively acidity, Sangiovese rosé is an ideal companion for summer meals and social gatherings.

Sangiovese bianco is a Blanc de Noir made from Sangiovese grapes

The production of white wine from red grapes

Yes, you read that right - it is actually possible to make white wine from red wine grapes! The key is to quickly separate the juice from the skins. This method is also known as "Blanc de Noirs" and is particularly popular in the production of champagne.

Blanc de Noirs is an amazing example of the versatility of Sangiovese. This white wine is made from dark Sangiovese grapes, which are harvested earlier than usual for red wine and immediately pressed gently to avoid any contact with the skins. This leaves the juice almost colorless. It is then fermented in the same way as white wine. This process requires careful handling so that the wine retains its freshness, elegance and fine aromas.

The wine is often characterized by a certain structure and complexity, which it owes to the characteristics of the red wine grapes, but without possessing their color. Blanc de Noirs made from Sangiovese grapes have an almost colorless to slightly pinkish hue and offer a refreshing taste experience with notes of pears, citrus fruits, flowers and herbs.

Sangiovese bianco is a wonderful aperitif wine and food companion

Winemaking is a fascinating process that involves both traditional and innovative methods. Although all three types of wine can be made from the same grapes, the individual techniques lead to surprisingly different results.

The Sangiovese grape variety also shows its remarkable versatility and adaptability when it comes to producing wines in different colors and styles.

Whether white, rosé or red, every Sangiovese wine offers unique characteristics and moments of pleasure to be discovered. The variety in the wine glass reflects the depth and breadth of the winemaker's craft and offers wine lovers an endless journey of discovery.