The Greatest Value Sangiovese? - 96-point Giodo La Quinta 2019

Carlo Ferrini, consultant to many of Tuscany’s top wines, became known as Mr Merlot in the 1990s, such was his propensity to suggest the addition of Merlot to the native Sangiovese. In those days, he felt that they needed the French grapes as they didn’t yet understand their own terroirs, but since the 2000s, the local knowledge has improved dramatically, and he now believes it is possible to grow Sangiovese that will produce world-class wine on its own.

Nowadays, he is known as Sr Eleganza, with his own label Podere Giodo focusing exclusively on the elegant side of Sangiovese. Whilst his Brunello regularly scores highly, it is priced accordingly, but for those interested in an absolutely delicious, 100% Sangiovese from a master winemaker for just over £30 a bottle inc vat, then this is a wine to pile into.