The Territory and Ancient History of Chianti

In the central part of Tuscany, mainly between the cities of Siena, Florence, Arezzo and the Pisan Hills, is a hilly area that for centuries has been the home of great Chianti red wines. The unique morphological characteristics and the variability of climate and altitude shape a region that is highly suited to the cultivation of vines.

It is a splendid natural landscape, almost as if it had been painted, with the silver of the olive trees, the typical elegance of the cypresses, the evocative castles and medieval villages, the chestnut and oak woods and, last but not least, the extraordinary expanses of vineyards. Sangiovese, one of the most prestigious and popular red grapes of the Italian territory, is the protagonist of this unique stretch of land. Together with a dash of local grapes, such as Canaiolo, it produces Chianti wine, an outstanding example of Italy's great winemaking culture.

From a historical point of view, the name seems to derive from the Latin word 'clangor', meaning 'noise', referring to hunting trips in the Tuscan woods. Other evidence seems to trace the name back to the Etruscan Clante, in honour of the noble families that populated the area. The earliest historical documents mention an ancient League, made up of the municipalities of Gaiole, Radda and Castellina, which regulated trade with Florence and had a black rooster as its symbol. It is no coincidence that these three municipalities, together with the Florentine municipalities of Casciano Tavernelle, Greve, Barberino and the Sienese municipalities of Castelnuovo Berardenga and Poggibonsi, were the birthplace of the Chianti Classico appellation, represented by this black rooster.

Chianti Wine: Characteristics and Production Areas

In addition to the historic Chianti Classico area, the best Chianti wines are produced in seven subzones:

• Colli Aretini: Wines from the eastern part are known for their great freshness.
• Colli Fiorentini: Historic and light reds, aged for at least one year.
• Colline Pisane: The area closest to the sea, producing delicate and aromatic wines.
• Colli Senesi: Easy-drinking and fruity wines between Montalcino and Montepulciano.
• Montalbano: Wines from sandy soils, known for their fragrance and drinkability.
• Rufina: A more inland area that produces the highest quality wines.
• Montespertoli: Located near Florence, it produces high-quality reds that have been aged for a long time.

All these zones can further produce different types of Chianti:

• Chianti Riserva: Subject to at least two years of ageing, including three months in bottle.
• Chianti Superiore: Adheres to stricter regulations, including a minimum alcohol content of 12%.

Additionally, since 2013, the Chianti Gran Selezione has been an added designation for Chianti Classico wines, requiring a minimum ageing of 30 months and sourced from the most suitable vineyards.

Chianti Grapes varieties

Chianti is a great Italian wine born from a centuries-old tradition and a constant pursuit of quality. It typically has a dark ruby-red colour that can turn to garnet in older expressions, particularly those aged longer in wood. Despite using a small percentage of other blending grapes, the characteristic aromas primarily reference those typical of Sangiovese. These are often intense and complex, featuring red and black fruit notes such as plum, berries, and sour cherry, along with floral hints reminiscent of violet and rose.

With wood ageing, the best Chianti wines can develop additional spicy notes, like black pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon, and tertiary aromas, including tobacco, cocoa, liquorice, and forest floor. On the palate, Chianti is marked by a clear freshness and pleasant tannic astringency, softened by the other grape varieties or harmonized and rounded off with wood ageing. It usually has a good alcohol content and a long, persistent finish.

Chianti wines often incorporate grape varieties like Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and even Merlot. Historically, white grape varieties were permitted in Chianti Classico; however, this is no longer the case, as regulations have changed to exclude them.

The Best Chianti Wine Brands

Best Chianti wines are celebrated for their rich history and quality, and several esteemed producers are renowned for their exceptional offerings:

• Antinori: A pioneering family in Italian winemaking, known for its innovation and consistent quality.
• Felsina: Offers wines that are elegant and true to the Chianti Classico terroir.
• Frescobaldi: A prestigious name that represents excellence across various Chianti expressions.
• Castello di Monsanto: A benchmark for quality Chianti Classico, combining tradition with modern techniques.
• Rocca di Castagnoli: Known for producing wines with a distinctive character and strong regional identity.

Chianti food and wine pairing

Chianti wines offer a versatile range of pairing possibilities, thanks to their balance of acidity, tannins, and vibrant fruit flavours. These characteristics make them particularly well-suited to complementing various Italian dishes and beyond.

• Classic Pairings: Traditional Tuscan dishes, like ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup) and T-bone steak (Florentine steak), pair excellently with Chianti. The wine's acidity and tannins cut through the richness of the steak, while enhancing the flavours of the beans and vegetables in ribollita.
• Cheese and Charcuterie: Chianti is also a great match for a selection of aged cheeses, such as Pecorino Toscano, and cured meats, like prosciutto and salami. The wine's acidity helps to cleanse the palate between bites, balancing the saltiness and fat of the meats and cheeses.
• Tomato-Based Dishes: The vibrant acidity of Chianti makes it an ideal companion for tomato-based dishes, including pasta with tomato sauce, lasagna, and pizza. The wine's fruity notes complement the sweetness of the tomatoes, while its structure holds up to the richness of cheese and meat toppings.
• Mediterranean Flavours: Chianti's versatility extends to Mediterranean cuisine, such as grilled vegetables, olives, and even dishes featuring herbs like rosemary and thyme. The wine's herbal notes harmonize well with these flavours, enhancing the overall dining experience.

In summary, Chianti wine food pairings are abundant and diverse, making it a staple choice for a wide range of dishes, from hearty meats to simple pasta. This adaptability is part of what makes it a cherished choice for both casual meals and special occasions. 

Chianti wine at the best prices

On Callmewine, you will find the best Chanti wine for every occasion. The Chianti wine price varies, but you can always find good deals that suit your budget and palate and enjoy the convenience of delivery right to your door. Discover our selection of Chianti, perfect for giving as a gift or enjoying lively company. With these fantastic bottles, aperitifs and dinner invitations will never be the same again.