Pinot Noir vs Sangiovese
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Pinot Noir and Sangiovese is tannin: Pinot Noir is Low while Sangiovese is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Pinot NoirSangiovese
Step 02
Pinot Noir vs Sangiovese
Compare structure side by side, then resolve the close-call with the right separator.
Primary separator
Pinot Noir leans pale color, low tannin, and red-fruit earthiness; Sangiovese leans sour-cherry fruit, savory herbs, and bright acid spine.
Train this pair →Aroma Markers
Pinot Noir more likely markers
- cranberry
- mushroom
- red cherry
Sangiovese more likely markers
- dried herbs
- sour cherry
- tomato leaf
Decision Cues
Most useful separators
- Pinot Noir leans pale color, low tannin, and red-fruit earthiness; Sangiovese leans sour-cherry fruit, savory herbs, and bright acid spine.
High-signal differences
- Acidity: Sangiovese slightly higher (Medium(+) vs High).
- Tannin: Sangiovese much higher (Low vs Medium(+)).
- Alcohol: Sangiovese slightly higher (Medium vs Medium).
Structure fingerprint
Pinot NoirSangiovese
Acidity
Medium(+)
High
Tannin
Low
Medium(+)
Body
Medium
Medium
Alcohol
Medium
Medium
Color intensity
Pale
Medium
Aromatic intensity
Medium(+)
Medium(+)
Reference context
Pinot Noir
Classic regions:
- Ahr
- Burgundy
- Central Otago
- Willamette Valley
Classic styles:
- Elegant pale-fruited still red
- Fine-boned oak-aged cool-climate red
Sangiovese
Classic regions:
- Brunello di Montalcino
- Chianti Classico
- Romagna
Classic styles:
- High-acid savory Italian red
- Oak-aged structured Tuscan red
Common questions
How do you tell Pinot Noir and Sangiovese apart in a blind tasting?
The clearest separator between Pinot Noir and Sangiovese is tannin: Pinot Noir is Low while Sangiovese is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Is Pinot Noir or Sangiovese higher in tannin?
On the WSET ladder, Pinot Noir is Low and Sangiovese is Medium(+) for tannin.
Are Pinot Noir and Sangiovese red or white?
Pinot Noir and Sangiovese are both red grape varieties.