TASTING NOTES FOR Calabria Belena Sangiovese 2023
🍷 Appearance
Bright ruby red with a lightly translucent edge and a subtle youthful vibrancy. Shows classic Sangiovese clarity in the glass.
👃 Aromas
Lifted and inviting, featuring spicy dark cherries, dried herbs and hints of strawberry and cedar. A touch of savoury spice adds interest and complexity.
👅 Palate
Medium-bodied and fresh, delivering flavours of cherry, cranberry and red berries with lively acidity. The fruit is bright and expressive, balanced by subtle savoury notes and gentle oak influence.
🍈 Texture & Finish
Fine-grained tannins provide structure without heaviness, keeping the wine smooth and approachable. The finish is clean and persistent, with lingering red fruit and a lightly savoury edge.
🍇 Overall Style
A modern Australian Sangiovese—fresh, vibrant and easy-drinking, yet still true to the variety’s savoury, food-friendly character. Approachable and versatile, perfect for everyday enjoyment.
🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with spaghetti Bolognese, pizza, antipasto platters, or grilled meats. Also works beautifully with tomato-based dishes and hard cheeses.
🥂 BBD Verdict
A seriously reliable, crowd-pleasing Sangiovese that punches well above its price point. Bright, savoury and incredibly food-friendly—an ideal inclusion in a Better Buy The Dozen mixed dozen for easy, weeknight drinking.
Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷
