Chianti
– A Cultural Symbol in a Glass

Few Italian wines enjoy the global recognition that Chianti does. This distinctive, historic red wine is celebrated every year on September 8, honoring one of Tuscany’s greatest winemaking traditions. More than just a wine, Chianti is a cultural icon that has shaped Italian winemaking for centuries.

The Chianti wine region lies in the heart of Tuscany, with the most famous version being Chianti Classico, produced in the hilly area between Florence and Siena. Its foundation is the Sangiovese grape – a native Italian variety known for its fresh acidity, cherry-like aromas, and elegant structure.

What Does Chianti Taste Like?

Classic Chianti tends to be light in color, medium-bodied, and bright with acidity, showcasing red fruit flavors like sour cherry, raspberry, and red plum, often complemented by earthy, leathery, and herbal notes. With extended aging (e.g., Chianti Riserva), the wine gains further complexity – showing aromas of tobacco, cedar, and dried flowers.

Modern styles of Chianti often display deeper color, silkier tannins, and the use of more contemporary oak-aging techniques.

🍇Main Chianti Styles:

• Chianti Classico DOCG – The most famous style from the historical heartland.

• Chianti DOCG – From a broader area, usually lighter and fruitier.

• Chianti Riserva – Aged for at least 24 months, with a more structured profile.

• Gran Selezione – Made only from the estate’s best grapes, with a minimum of 30 months of aging.

🍝 Food Pairings

Chianti is a quintessential Italian pairing wine, perfect with:

• Tomato-based pasta dishes

• Pizza and lasagna

• Mushroom risotto

• Grilled vegetables

• Spicy Italian sausages

Its high acidity and refined tannins make it a beautiful match for Mediterranean cuisine.

Looking for something similar but different? Try a Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (also Sangiovese-based, with more complexity) or a Rosso di Montalcino, the younger sibling of Brunello.

🥂 Recommended Chianti Wines for Chianti Day:

• Bindi Sergardi Chianti Classico DOCG La Ghirlanda 2021

• Cecchi Chianti Classico 2021

• Guidi Chianti 2021

• Collazzi – Bastion 2023 – Chianti Classico DOCG

On Chianti Day, September 8, let’s raise our glasses to Tuscany. This wine embodies not only tradition – but also the very soul of the Italian way of life, in every sip.