Home > Magazine Archives > Nov. 15, 2003 Issue > Features
California Sangiovese Losing Ground
Despite high hopes, Tuscany's prime red rarely thrives in the Golden State
Tim Fish
Issue: November 15, 2003
When Atlas Peak planted its first vineyards in the mountains above Napa Valley back in 1987, Sangiovese seemed poised to become the next classic European grape to find success in California. The state, after all, had already proven itself with the noble wines of Bordeaux and Burgundy; why should California winemakers not expect to excel with the dominant grape of Italian Chianti? Sixteen years later, however, Sangiovese is still struggling to find its way in California.
To continue reading this page, become a WineSpectator.com member today!
Do you have a Wine Spectator magazine subscription? Save 50% on your Online Membership right now!
Log In If You're Already a WineSpectator.com Member
