This tasty Italian varietal is one of my favorites when I’m cooking Italian treats at home. I particularly enjoy this tasty Sangiovese by winemakers Chuck and Matt Ortman. I credit them for consistency in each vintage when it comes to this fruity variety. I loved the pretty cranberry, raspberry, and red cherry notes balanced with a perfect note of citrus flavors that keep all that ripe fruit in check. It’s perfect for meaty lasagna or the vegetarian version, chicken cacciatore, a great Margherita pizza or the same ingredients with sausage and mushrooms. This impressive red is equally versatile with red meats or enjoyed alone, and it’s value-priced at $20 retail. You’ll find it at 15 Degrees C in Templeton, Morro Bay in Albertsons, and Scolari’s in SLO.
This article appears in Aug 25 – Sep 1, 2011.
