Definition: An important red grape grown in the Tuscany region of Italy. It's the principal grape used in making Chianti.

Grown primarily in: Italy and United States

Best Climate: Warm to Hot

Winemaking: Used as the primary grape in Chianti, it's blended with a variety of other red Italian varietals. In the "Super Tuscans" (and in California wines) it's blended with cabernet sauvignon and benefits from some oak aging.

Nose: Medium spice, rich red fruit, milk chocolate.

Mouth: Medium to Full Body, firm acids, medium tannins.

Note: Name literally means "Blood of Jove" or "Blood of Christ."