Astringency subqualities and sensory perception of Tuscan Sangiovese wines

Aim: The Sangiovese grape cultivar is at the basis of the most well-known Italian wines produced in the Tuscany region. However, little is known about the sensory characteristics of Tuscan Sangiovese wines, and the diversity in astringency subqualities has never been investigated. In this study we evaluated the sensory perception of 16 commercial Sangiovese wines belonging to four categories of denomination (Chianti DOCG, CH; Chianti Classico DOCG, CC; Morellino di Scansano DOCG, MS; Toscana IGT, TS), and again after 20 months of bottle aging.Methods and results: A sensory evaluation was made, consisting of the astringency subqualities, taste, odor, and aroma profiles of wines. In addition, chemical analyses were carried out for the base parameters, polyphenols and some volatile compounds. Astringency subqualities varied depending on the percentage of Sangiovese in wines (from 80 % to 100 %). Blended Sangiovese wines were characterized by positive mouthfeel sensations. According to these, the drivers of liking the wines were associated with soft, mouthcoat, and rich subqualities. The Tuscan Sangiovese denominations were differentiated by volatile active compounds, whereas after about two years of bottle aging the astringency subqualities better achieved this task. Moreover, aging also influenced the evolution of wines: CC and CH wines positively evolved, revealing a complex odor profile; MS lost the fruity character; and TS was less involved in sensory modification.Conclusions: For the first time, a detailed evaluation of the astringency subqualities of commercial Sangiovese wines was undertaken. Sangiovese subqualities differed according to the percentage of Sangiovese and denomination. Tuscan denominations were distinguished by peculiar sensory characteristics. In addition, bottle aging significantly influenced the evolution of the sensory perception of Sangiovese wine. In particular, mono-varietal Sangiovese wine needed a long period of aging to soften the astringency characteristics.Significance and impact of the study: Sangiovese wine represents - with its denominations and styles - the best-known and high-quality Italian wine in the world, and its popularity is increasing worldwide. Tuscan Sangiovese wines are often a blend with other red varieties of the region, and these can vary according to the production regulations. This study aimed to improve the knowledge of the sensory characteristics of Sangiovese wines belonging to different denominations and made with different percentages of this grape cultivar. In particular, the astringency subqualities are fundamental to fully appreciating the quality of the red wine during tasting.