Sangiovese is a black grape variety most commonly used for red wine production. It is also Italy’s most planted grape variety. It is believed to originally come from southern Italy as it is a natural cross between Ciliegiolo and Calabrese di Montenuovo. It is an early-budding and late-ripening grape variety with compact, medium-sized bunches and relatively big berries. It is susceptible to botrytis bunch rot (grey mold), though relatively tolerant to drought. Sangiovese is often produced as a monovarietal wine and is also used in blends with different indigenous Italian and international grape varieties. Classic blending partners are Colorino, Canaiolo Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Fermentation usually takes place in stainless steel tanks or oak vats, maturation – in oak vats.