Sanger Family Wine Blog

The Mediterranean Lifestyle: Savoring Wine and Life with Sanger Family of Wines

Picture this: you’re sitting in the sun, surrounded by the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast, savoring a glass of wine that feels like a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean. That’s the experience we aim to create at Sanger Family of Wines.

There’s something about the Mediterranean lifestyle that just resonates—sun-drenched coastlines, fresh and flavorful food, and, of course, great wine savored at a leisurely pace. At Sanger Family of Wines, we’ve crafted each bottle to capture this spirit and bring it right to the heart of California’s Central Coast. From our tasting room in charming Solvang, CA, we invite you to experience wine that isn’t just something to drink, but a way to slow down, savor, and connect.

A World of Wine: Old World Flavors, New World Craft

Our collection of wines is designed for every kind of wine lover. With our three labels—Consilience, Tre Anelli, and Marianello—each represents its own unique story and winemaking heritage. Consilience pays homage to French Rhône-style wines, featuring rich, bold flavors with layers that invite you to explore. Tre Anelli brings the best of the Mediterranean and Iberian Peninsula, offering Spanish and Portuguese varietals that add intrigue and character to every pour. Finally, Marianello captures the essence of Italian winemaking, paying tribute to classic Italian wines with a fresh, Central Coast twist. Each bottle is crafted with intention, echoing the diversity and depth of some of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.

Perfect Food Pairings: Celebrating the Mediterranean Table

The Mediterranean approach to food and wine is all about celebrating simplicity and freshness—and our wines are perfect for that. A bottle of Tre Anelli Tempranillo pairs beautifully with tapas, capturing the zest of Spanish flavors, while Marianello’s Sangiovese is a natural match for Italian classics like pasta or wood-fired pizza. In the tasting room, we offer curated charcuterie boards and sweets to bring out the best in each pour. A little bread, fresh cheese, maybe some figs or almonds, and you’ve got a simple spread that transforms any tasting into an experience. Here, we believe that sharing food and wine is one of life’s purest joys, and we’re proud to create wines that bring people together.

The Solvang Experience: A Little Mediterranean Getaway

Our tasting room in Solvang is crafted to give you a moment of escape—a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle right here on California’s Central Coast. With a relaxed, open ambiance and cozy seating, it’s the perfect setting for lingering over a glass or sharing a bottle with friends. Live music adds to the atmosphere on select days, enhancing the experience with the laid-back vibe that’s part of Solvang’s charm. Whether you’re joining us for a wine tasting flight, sampling our popular Marianello olive oils, or enjoying a full bottle with friends on the patio, each visit to Sanger Family of Wines is a moment to unwind and enjoy.

Embrace the Mediterranean Lifestyle with Sanger Family of Wines

At Sanger Family of Wines, we’re more than just a winery—we’re a lifestyle. Each bottle we produce is a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the people around you. The Mediterranean lifestyle is about living well, appreciating what’s in front of you, and making time for the things that matter. Whether you’re exploring our reserve wines, savoring a tasting flight in Solvang, or taking a bottle home to share, we’re honored to be part of your journey to enjoy the finer things in life.

So come by our tasting room in Solvang and raise a glass to the Mediterranean way of life. Let’s toast to every sip, every shared table, and every memory made along the way.

Old World Meets New: Exploring Wines at The Sanger Family of Wines

Consilience: A Bold Taste of France with a California Flair

Let’s start with Consilience, our label that celebrates the timeless wines of France, especially Rhône-inspired reds and classics like Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines are bold, expressive, and crafted for anyone who enjoys rich, intense flavors. We like to say Consilience wines bring people together, and they’re fantastic alongside grilled meats, aged cheeses, and cozy, hearty meals. Think of it as the best of French elegance with a bit of California boldness.

Wines to Try:

Syrah: Deep, dark, and full of blackberry, pepper, and a touch of earthiness.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Classic and bold, with dark fruit flavors and a smooth finish.

Tre Anelli: Mediterranean Style with a Sunny Twist

If you’re into the lively, food-friendly wines of Spain and Portugal, Tre Anelli is going to be right up your alley. This label features Spanish and Portuguese varietals like Tempranillo and Albariño, perfect for sharing and pairing with all your favorite dishes. These wines capture the Mediterranean spirit, bright and fresh, and pair beautifully with tapas, roasted veggies, and seafood. Tre Anelli is a great choice for anyone looking to explore unique, Mediterranean flavors with a touch of California sunshine.

Wines to Try:

Tempranillo: Smooth and balanced, with hints of dark fruit and a bit of spice.
Albariño: Crisp and refreshing with citrus notes, a perfect match for seafood and lighter fare.

Marianello: The Heart of Italy in Every Bottle

Marianello is our homage to Italy, honoring the Italian roots of our owner, Bill Sanger. Named after his grandparents, Maria and Nello, Marianello wines celebrate everything we love about Italian wines: warmth, elegance, and a focus on family. Here, you’ll find Italian varietals and blends that are versatile and perfect for pairing with pasta, risotto, and a good charcuterie board. Marianello brings a little bit of Italy to California, making every glass a celebration.

Wines to Try:

Sangiovese: Bright and lively, with notes of cherry and just the right amount of acidity.
Super Tuscan Blend: Rich and smooth, with a long, satisfying finish—perfect for an Italian-inspired dinner.

Stop By for a Taste!

Whether you’re drawn to bold French-style reds, Mediterranean-inspired whites, or Italian classics, Sanger Family of Wines has a bottle with your name on it. We’d love to welcome you to our tasting room in Solvang, where you can explore each label’s unique style. Every wine has a story to tell, and it’s always exciting to see which one resonates with you.

 

Cin cin!

How to Taste Wine Like a Pro: Swirl, Sniff, and Sip

 

How to Taste Wine Like a Pro: Swirl, Sniff, and Sip

Wine tasting can be magical; there’s something that elevates the experience beyond mere sipping. The magic has to do with your exploration of the wine’s sensory experience and exposure to the story inside each bottle. You probably won’t become a pro taster now, but we’ll give you some pointers to enjoy the experience more thoughtfully. Here’s a simple guide to tasting for the next time you uncork your bottle of Sanger wine.

Swirl – Bring Your Wine to Life

Let’s begin with the swirl. Hold your glass by the stem and give it a little twirl. Lift the wine to your nose and inhale. We’re not just moving the wine inside the glass at this point; we’re waking it up. By swirling your wine, you’re allowing it to mingle with oxygen, releasing flavors and aromas that would otherwise remain in slumber. This is especially true of reds such as our Double Gold Cabernet. With every swirl, you’re revealing another layer of depth and complexity and opening up this delicious wine so that its character can breathe a little.

Sniff – Uncover the Layers

Sniff the wine deeply from your glass, breathe in, and let the aromas unfold. Close your eyes if you need to, and see what associations arise – do you detect blackberry, cedar, spice, or something else? There’s always a story to be conjured from a wine at this pre-cognitive step. This ‘in-breath of waiting’ is not only about smell identification. It is also an anticipatory moment when the narrator – the wine – will reveal itself to the reader – you – before it ever even touches your tongue.

Sip – Discover the Flavors

Finally, drink, but don’t swallow immediately. Let it journey over your palate, noting as it crests how fruits give way to a slow wash of smooth tannins. Is it a bold, full-bodied Cabernet bursting with flavor or a crisp, sun-kissed Sauvignon Blanc with lively acidity? Either way, you will learn something new with each sip – or at least if it’s a red or a white – but with each mouthful. 

Start your tasting adventure now at our tasting room in Solvang, California, in the heart of Central Valley Wine Country. Or, Swirl, Sniff, and Sip from the comfort of your home by choosing your favorite wines at the Sanger Wines Online Store. 

Cheers to the journey,

The Sanger Family of Wines

 

 

Sangiovese - The Heart of Tuscany in Marianello Wines

When you think of Italian wine, Sangiovese likely comes to mind as the backbone of Italy's most beloved reds. This dynamic grape variety is at the heart of the Marianello collection at Sanger Family of Wines, where we craft wines that capture the essence of Italy while reflecting the unique terroir of Santa Ynez Valley. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Tuscany to the cooler microclimates of California, Sangiovese’s versatility shines.

Sangiovese: A Legacy in Tuscany

Originating in Tuscany, Sangiovese is the most planted red grape in Italy, known for its bright acidity, rich tannins, and vibrant fruit flavors. It thrives in Italy’s most iconic wine regions:

Chianti: The birthplace of Sangiovese, Chianti is famous for its medium-bodied reds with notes of red cherry, dried herbs, and earthy undertones. The best examples, especially those from the Chianti Classico zone, are rich with the potential to age gracefully. Producers like Fontodi and Castello di Ama create wines with a signature balance of fruit and acidity.

Brunello di Montalcino: Brunello is Sangiovese’s most prestigious expression. Produced exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso (a clone of Sangiovese), Brunello di Montalcino is known for its depth and complexity. The wines are often aged for several years, developing flavors of dark fruit, leather, and spice. Renowned producers like Biondi-Santi and Casanova di Neri have set the standard for these age-worthy reds.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Often overshadowed by Chianti and Brunello, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is another treasure of Tuscany. This wine is typically more approachable in its youth, offering a balance of fruit, floral, and herbal characteristics. Avignonesi is a notable producer in this region.

Aging and Styles of Sangiovese

One of the most defining aspects of Sangiovese is how it can vary by region, aging style, and winemaking technique. The grape’s inherent acidity and tannin structure allow it to age well, and this is especially evident in higher-quality regions like Brunello and Chianti.

Chianti Classico: These wines often see 1-2 years of oak aging, with a focus on maintaining fresh fruit and bright acidity. The result is a wine with signature red fruit flavors (think cherry and raspberry) paired with earthy, herbal nuances.

Brunello di Montalcino: These wines typically see 2+ years in oak and a longer bottle-aging process. The extended aging produces wines with a rich, smooth profile, showcasing flavors of black fruit, tobacco, and a touch of leather.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Aged for 2-3 years, Vino Nobile is often less tannic and more approachable than its Brunello counterpart. These wines balance ripe fruit with a subtle floral and herbal character.

Santa Ynez Terroir: Marianello’s Take on Sangiovese

At Sanger Family of Wines, we’ve embraced the expressive nature of Sangiovese while showcasing the unique characteristics of the Santa Ynez Valley. The region’s climate is an ideal match for Sangiovese, where warm days and cool nights allow the grape to ripen slowly, preserving its natural acidity while developing depth of flavor. This climate difference compared to Italy’s warmer regions gives Marianello’s Sangiovese a signature vibrancy and freshness.

Our Marianello Sangiovese mirrors the elegance of Italian Sangiovese, but with a distinct Californian twist. Expect lively flavors of cherry, pomegranate, and red currant, complemented by subtle earthy notes and a touch of spice. The wine’s bright acidity makes it incredibly food-friendly, perfect for pairing with a range of dishes.

Pairing Marianello Sangiovese

Sangiovese is famously versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its high acidity and moderate tannins allow it to complement a wide range of dishes, particularly Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Here are some ideas for pairing Marianello’s Sangiovese:

Pasta with tomato-based sauces: The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of tomato sauce, creating a harmonious pairing.
Grilled meats and sausages: The earthy and herbal notes of Sangiovese work well with the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
Pizza: Whether topped with prosciutto, mushrooms, or classic Margherita, Sangiovese’s bright fruit and acidity make it the perfect pizza companion.

Why Marianello Sangiovese Stands Out

What makes Marianello’s Sangiovese so special is the perfect balance of tradition and innovation. By combining time-tested Italian winemaking methods with the unique climate of Santa Ynez, our Sangiovese captures the true essence of the grape while offering a fresh, modern experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Marianello’s Sangiovese transports you to the heart of Tuscany, all while showcasing the best of California’s Central Coast.

If you’re a fan of Italian wines or looking to explore the flavors of Tuscany from the comfort of your home, our Marianello Sangiovese is the wine for you. Visit us in Solvang or explore our online store to discover this vibrant wine that beautifully bridges the old and new worlds of winemaking.

The Sanger Family of Wines Downtown Solvang Tasting Room Experience

Hey there! Tom here, and if there’s one thing I love about my work, it’s creating experiences that bring people together over wine and embody the art of savoring life. When you step into our tasting room at Sanger Family of Wines in Solvang, it’s more than just a wine tasting; it’s an invitation to experience the warmth, richness, and spirit of the Mediterranean lifestyle right here on California’s Central Coast.

Solvang, CA

Nestled in the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast, Solvang offers visitors a chance to slow down and truly experience life. Known for its charming Danish-inspired architecture and picturesque streets, the town is more than just a destination—it’s a way of life. From the cobblestone roads to the incredible scenery, Solvang brings together culture, community, and a relaxed lifestyle that makes every visit memorable.

The magic of Solvang lies in its ability to transport visitors into a world where time seems to slow down. Whether you’re browsing through art galleries, enjoying the cozy ambiance of local cafés and aebelskivers, or strolling through the town’s boutique shops, it’s easy to feel connected to the place. But it’s the local wineries, like Sanger Family of Wines, that offer a chance to experience Solvang’s rich wine culture in a way that perfectly complements the town’s relaxed vibe.

Located right in the heart of town, Sanger Family of Wines’ tasting room is more than just a place to enjoy a glass of wine. It’s a place to settle into the rhythms of Solvang. Visitors can sample a variety of wines from the winery’s three distinct labels—Consilience, Tre Anelli, and Marianello—each representing the diverse winemaking traditions of France, the Mediterranean, and Italy, but crafted right here in California’s Central Coast. With each sip, guests can taste the essence of old-world winemaking traditions that are expertly translated into modern California wines.

What makes the experience at Sanger Family of Wines particularly special is its connection to the broader Solvang community. The winery partners with local, family-owned, farm-to-fork restaurants, sharing a commitment to high-quality, health-conscious living. Guests can indulge in curated food pairings that highlight the region’s bounty, making the wine-tasting experience a true celebration of local flavors.

Solvang is also a town that thrives on community, and the events here reflect that spirit. Sanger Family of Wines brings that sense of connection to life with live music events on the weekends. These intimate gatherings offer a chance for visitors to unwind, enjoy a glass of wine, and soak in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere that makes Solvang so unique.

For those visiting Solvang, a stop at Sanger Family of Wines offers more than just wine—it’s an opportunity to experience the essence of the town itself. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet afternoon or gather with friends to celebrate the good things in life, the winery offers a space to do just that. Here, amidst the vineyards, the hospitality, and the community, guests are invited to embrace the slower pace and savor the moment, just as Solvang itself encourages.

Nebbiolo - The King of Piedmont in Marianello Wines

Nebbiolo is one of Italy's most revered grape varieties, known for its bold character, complex aromas, and remarkable aging potential. In our Marianello collection, we’ve captured the spirit of this noble varietal, blending Italy’s centuries-old traditions with the unique terroir of Santa Ynez Valley. While Nebbiolo is most famously grown in the Barolo and Barbaresco regions of Piedmont, we’ve crafted a version that reflects the best of both worlds—an elegant, approachable wine with the depth and complexity that defines this iconic grape.

Nebbiolo – A Grape of Many Faces

Nebbiolo is often hailed as the king of Piedmont, and it’s no surprise given its ability to produce wines of great distinction. The grape thrives in the cooler, foggy hills of northern Italy, where its high acidity and tannin structure help it to age beautifully. Nebbiolo is a true chameleon, with its expression shifting depending on where it's grown and how it’s made.

Barolo: Known as the “King of Nebbiolo,” Barolo is rich, tannic, and powerful, often requiring many years of aging to reach its peak. Wines from this region are deeply complex, with notes of roses, cherries, and earthy, tar-like undertones. Top producers like Giacomo Conterno and Bartolo Mascarello have become icons for creating some of the finest examples of Barolo.

Barbaresco: Known as the “Queen of Nebbiolo,” Barbaresco is more approachable than Barolo but still deeply expressive of the grape’s potential. These wines tend to be slightly lighter and more elegant, with floral aromas and vibrant red fruit. Notable producers include Angelo Gaja and Ceretto, who have earned global acclaim for their refined expressions of Nebbiolo.

Langhe Nebbiolo: A more accessible expression of Nebbiolo, Langhe Nebbiolo comes from younger vines or fruit that doesn't meet the strict standards for Barolo or Barbaresco. These wines are fresher and lighter but still retain the key characteristics of Nebbiolo, with bright fruit and a more immediate drinkability.

Aging Nebbiolo – The Evolution of Complexity

Nebbiolo’s aging potential is one of its defining characteristics. The grape’s high acidity and tannin structure make it a natural for aging, and wines from Barolo or Barbaresco can continue to evolve for decades. However, the aging process varies depending on region and style:

Barolo: Wines from this prestigious region are often aged for a minimum of 38 months, with many producers opting for longer aging in large oak casks. This extended aging process softens the tannins and brings out the wine’s complex aromas of roses, earth, and fruit.

Barbaresco: Typically aged for around 24 months, Barbaresco is usually made using a mix of stainless steel and smaller oak barrels. This results in a wine that is more immediately approachable but still retains the essential structure and complexity of Nebbiolo.

Langhe Nebbiolo: With a shorter aging period, typically in stainless steel or large oak barrels, Langhe Nebbiolo is more vibrant and youthful, offering a lighter, fresher version of the grape. It’s a great introduction to Nebbiolo and can be enjoyed earlier, though still capable of developing further with time.

The Terroir of Santa Ynez – Marianello’s Nebbiolo

Our Marianello Nebbiolo comes from the cool, coastal-influenced Santa Ynez Valley, where the climate provides the ideal conditions for growing this temperamental grape. The valley's foggy mornings and sun-filled afternoons mirror the conditions of Piedmont’s finest growing regions, allowing our Nebbiolo to ripen slowly, preserving the natural acidity and developing the distinctive flavors that make this wine so special.

In crafting our Marianello Nebbiolo, we aim to strike a balance between the elegant structure of classic Piedmont Nebbiolos and the vibrant, fruit-forward profile that Santa Ynez terroir imparts. The result is a wine that is both sophisticated and approachable, with layers of aromas including rose petals, ripe cherries, and hints of earthy tobacco.

Pairing Marianello Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo’s firm tannins and high acidity make it a perfect match for rich, flavorful foods. It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes that can stand up to its complexity and structure. Here are a few pairing ideas to elevate your Marianello Nebbiolo experience:

Pasta with truffles: The earthy aromas of truffles and the savory richness of pasta are a classic pairing with Nebbiolo, complementing the wine’s floral and earthy notes.
Roasted meats: Nebbiolo’s tannins shine with roasted meats like lamb or duck, where the rich flavors can balance the wine’s acidity and structure.
Aged cheeses: The acidity in Nebbiolo cuts through the richness of aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino, creating a harmonious pairing.

Why Marianello Nebbiolo Is Special

What sets our Marianello Nebbiolo apart is how it captures the best qualities of both its Italian roots and the exceptional terroir of Santa Ynez. While staying true to the rich history of Nebbiolo, our version offers a more approachable and vibrant expression, making it a perfect wine for both newcomers and connoisseurs alike. Whether enjoyed in its youth or aged for a few years, this wine continues to evolve, offering new layers of complexity with every sip.

If you’re a fan of Piedmont wines, or simply someone who appreciates a fine, age-worthy red, our Marianello Nebbiolo is sure to captivate. Visit us at our tasting room in Solvang or explore our online store to experience the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.