Discover the Chianti wine sub-region of Italy

about this subregion

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) region boasts a rich viticultural history shaped by its unique environment. The region's vineyards, set amidst undulating hills, benefit from varying altitudes ranging from 250 to 600 meters above sea level. This varied elevation, combined with a predominantly Mediterranean climate, creates the perfect backdrop for grape cultivation, especially the region's star varietal: Sangiovese. This grape is the heart and soul of Chianti wines, imbuing them with their distinctive taste and character. Here, the Consorzio Vino Chianti is key to ensuring the high-quality levels of all the wines produced under the denomination.

Within Chianti DOCG, three wine categories particularly stand out: Rosso, Rosso Superiore, and Rosso Riserva. The basic Chianti DOCG Rosso offers an approachable taste profile, ideal for those looking to explore the essence of the region. For those seeking a more refined experience, the Rosso Superiore provides a more concentrated expression of the Sangiovese grape, often reflecting the meticulous vineyard practices employed. Lastly, the Rosso Riserva, aged longer than its counterparts, showcases the depth and complexity attainable in Chianti, with nuanced flavors that evolve and mature with time.

In every bottle from the Chianti DOCG, one can taste the harmony between the Sangiovese grape and its native environment, a true embodiment of the Tuscan landscape and its winemaking legacy.

Discover Terroir

The Chianti DOCG is an iconic wine region situated in the central part of Tuscany, Italy. Enveloped by the timeless beauty of the Tuscan countryside, the Chianti region spreads across the lush rolling hills, stretching between two of Tuscany's most prominent cities: Florence to the north and Siena to the south.

Its landscape is characterized by a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, many of which are perched atop hilltops, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Chianti's terrain varies considerably, from elevated areas with a cooler climate, which imbue the grapes with a fresh acidity, to the warmer valleys that provide richness and structure to the wines.

This area, while synonymous with winemaking, is also interspersed with dense woodlands, historic castles, and charming farmhouses. The combination of its unique topography, favorable Mediterranean climate, and centuries-old viticultural traditions makes Chianti DOCG a revered and sought-after wine region in the world of enology.

In the heart of Tuscany lies the Chianti DOCG, a region where the climate plays an instrumental role in shaping the distinctive character of its wines. Defined by a Mediterranean warmth, Chianti enjoys the gentle embrace of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which brings about a maritime influence that moderates its temperatures.

Warm and dry summers, characterized by temperatures conducive to grape ripening, particularly favor the Sangiovese variety, imbuing it with rich flavors and optimal sugar levels. While winters are mild, the occasional frost becomes a vineyard's concern, especially in the more depressed terrains.

A striking feature of Chianti's climate is the pronounced diurnal temperature variation. The warmth of the day gives way to cooler nights, a transition that retains the grapes' acidity. This results in wines that resonate with freshness and vitality.

Rain primarily graces the region during the spring and autumn. While spring showers nurture budding vines, the autumnal rains demand a meticulous harvest timing. Yet, even in the drier summer months, this pattern ensures the vines never thirst for too long.

Elevations within Chianti vary, with vineyards nestled between 250 to 600 meters above sea level. This range introduces microclimatic nuances. The higher altitudes, with their cooler embrace, lead to slower grape ripening, bestowing wines with heightened acidity and aromatic depth.

Lastly, the winds, carrying whispers of the sea, sweep through the vineyards. Beyond just tempering the heat, these breezes play guardian, warding off fungal threats and ensuring grapes remain pristine throughout their growth.

In the interplay of these climatic elements, Chianti's wines find their elegance, complexity, and unmistakable identity.

The Chianti DOCG, renowned for its wines, owes much of its reputation to the diverse range of soils present in the region. Each soil type introduces unique characteristics to the wines, providing them with varied textures, flavors, and aging potential. Here's a breakdown of the predominant soil types in the Chianti DOCG:

Galestro: This is perhaps the most iconic soil type associated with the Chianti region. Galestro refers to a schistous clay that crumbles easily when dry. It is well-draining and compels the vine roots to dig deep into the earth in search of water. This deep rooting system allows the vines to draw a wide range of minerals from the ground, contributing to the complexity and structure of the wines. Sangiovese vines planted in Galestro tend to produce wines with pronounced aromatics and tannic structures.
Alberese: Alberese is a hard limestone that is commonly found interspersed with Galestro in the Chianti hills. Its presence is marked by the white, chalky outcrops seen in many vineyards. Vines grown in Alberese-rich soils often produce wines with bright acidity and elegant fruit expressions. This soil type also plays a role in producing wines that age gracefully over time.
Clay: In the lower-altitude vineyards and valleys of Chianti, clayey soils dominate. These soils retain moisture well, providing a consistent water supply to the vines, especially during the dry summer months. Wines from clay-dominant soils tend to have a fuller body, with rounder, more opulent fruit profiles.
Sandy Soils: Areas with sandy soils offer excellent drainage and tend to produce wines with delicate aromas, often reminiscent of red fruits and floral notes. These wines usually have softer tannins and are typically more approachable in their youth.
Loam and Silt: These are mixed soils that combine attributes from clay, sand, and silt. Their balanced nature ensures good water retention while also offering appropriate drainage. Wines from these soils are often well-rounded, with a harmonious blend of fruit, acidity, and tannins.

Discover

Sangiovese, the leading grape variety of the Chianti DOCG region, is as emblematic of Tuscany as its rolling hills and renaissance art. The grape itself boasts a thin skin, resulting in a translucent ruby-red hue in wines. Its bunches are elongated and cylindrical in shape, with medium-sized, oval berries that have a blue-black appearance when ripe. This physical aspect is not only indicative of its delicate nature but also foretells the elegant wines it produces.

Diving into the aromatic and flavor profile of the Sangiovese grape, one is immediately greeted by a captivating bouquet of red cherries, wild berries, and floral notes of violets. As the wine dances on the palate, these fruit-forward nuances are often complemented by undertones of dried herbs, tobacco, and sometimes, a hint of earthy clay. Its naturally high acidity and pronounced tannins make Sangiovese wines lively and adaptable to a myriad of culinary pairings. With every sip, this grape variety encapsulates the very soul of the Chianti DOCG, offering a wine experience that's both timeless and deeply rooted in Tuscan tradition.

The wines of Chianti DOCG are revered for their exceptional balance, complexity, and the ability to beautifully represent the region's terroir. At their core, they champion the Sangiovese grape, deftly blended with other authorized red grapes such as Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as a select ensemble of authorized white grapes. This intricate blending process yields wines with myriad depths and expressions, each carrying its own distinct story. Among these, the Rosso, Rosso Superiore, and Rosso Riserva wines have carved a niche for themselves, standing as testaments to the region's winemaking prowess.

Chianti DOCG Rosso:The entry point to the world of Chianti wines, the Rosso offers a vivid aromatic bouquet. Fresh red cherries, strawberries, and a hint of roses introduce the drinker to this wine. On the palate, the lively acidity of Sangiovese shines through, complemented by soft tannins and a medium body. This wine is versatile, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience the essence of Chianti.
Chianti DOCG Rosso Superiore:Taking a step deeper into the heart of Tuscany, the Rosso Superiore offers a richer and more layered experience. The nose is greeted by aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and subtle notes of sweet spices. The wine feels more structured on the palate, with the fruit flavors giving way to hints of leather, tobacco, and dried herbs. Its lingering finish makes it a favorite among connoisseurs.
Chianti DOCG Rosso Riserva:The Riserva represents the pinnacle of Chianti's red wine offerings. Aged longer than its counterparts, it exudes a complex aroma profile. Deep notes of dried cherries, figs, and a touch of vanilla beckon the senses. On tasting, the wine's maturity is evident; flavors of dark chocolate, truffle, and a touch of smoky oak unfold with every sip, enveloped by well-integrated tannins that promise a wine of age-worthy quality.

Chianti

Associations

Discover Terroir

Discover