Unlike domestic wines where the grape and place of origin are obvious (ie Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon), Italian wines are difficult to understand. One reason is the Italian government has strict rules abbreviated DOC, DOCG and IGT. Similar to America, appellations set production standards for type of grapes used, alcohol and ripeness levels, length of aging, density of vine plantings, geographical boundaries, etc.

MARCHIONNI Rossovigliano Toscana 2017
100% Sangiovese, Tuscany | $20

DID YOU KNOW? This wine is 100% Sangiovese from Tuscany, 14% ALC, from estate vineyards and winery nearby Florence, organic farming, etc. This wine checks all the boxes to be classified Chianti Colli Fiorentini DOCG so why is it labelled IGT?  (see answer at end of post). Continue reading →