Chianti DOCG

A true paradise for lovers of Italian wine, Tuscany is brimming with vinicultural gems that are worth savouring at least once in a lifetime. Nestled amidst its lush green landscapes lies one of Italy’s best-known and most highly regarded red wines in the world: Chianti. The history of this wine dates back to the Middle Ages, in the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Siena. Chianti began to gain renown from the 18th century onwards when the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo III de’ Medici, officially defined the boundaries of the Chianti production area. Over time, the production rules were strengthened and refined, leading to the creation of the Chianti DOC in 1967, followed by the Chianti DOCG in 1984. Today, this wine’s global reputation rests not only on its historical heritage but also on the richness of its terroirs.

Indeed, it is impossible to talk about Chianti without mentioning its exceptional terroir. Tuscany offers a spectacular setting of rolling hills, cypress trees, olive groves and vineyards bathed in light. But behind these unique landscapes lies, above all, an ideal environment for viticulture. The Chianti DOCG covers 70,000 hectares, of which more than 15,000 are devoted to vineyards. The vineyards benefit from a wide variety of terroirs: sandy soils, clay-limestone hills, pebbles and even schist. The vines thrive in a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot, dry summers and mild winters. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, thereby preserving their acidity!

This exceptional diversity makes Chianti DOCG particularly interesting and allows it to offer a wide range of styles depending on the production area.

The identity of Chianti wine rests on an iconic grape variety: Sangiovese. The king of Tuscan grape varieties, it produces full-bodied wines with aromas of red and black fruits, intertwined with spicy notes and herbaceous undertones. These red wines offer powerful tannins and particularly high acidity. The grape variety can be blended with other varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or Canaiolo, in varying proportions. Being particularly sensitive, it perfectly expresses the differences in terroir.

Between Chianti and Chianti Classico, the uninitiated can easily get confused. These are, in fact, two distinct appellations:

• The Chianti DOCG covers a large production area comprising the provinces of Florence, Siena, Pistoia, Arezzo, Prato and Pisa. Blends must consist of at least 70 per cent Sangiovese. White grape varieties such as Malvasia and Trebbiano are permitted. This DOCG comprises seven sub-regions, the names of which may appear on the label: Colli Fiorentini, Colli Aretini, Colli Senesi, Colli Pisane, Montespertoli, Montalbano and Rufina. Under this appellation, Chianti red wine offers a simple, approachable and fruity profile.
• The Chianti Classico DOCG corresponds to the historic Chianti area, covering nearly 7,000 hectares. It prohibits the use of white grape varieties and requires a minimum of 80 per cent Sangiovese in the blends. Production rules are stricter, notably including a yield limit and a minimum ageing period of between 12 and 30 months. Recognisable by the black rooster (Gran Nero) adorning their labels, Chianti Classico wines are fuller-bodied, more powerful and more complex than those of the Chianti DOCG appellation.

Choosing a Chianti wine from Italy can seem complicated, given the wide variety of styles available. To help you choose your Chianti red wine, Vinatis offers a diverse selection of high-quality bottles that will satisfy both casual wine lovers and connoisseurs alike, and are suitable for all occasions.

• For an everyday meal or a simple aperitif, a young Chianti is an excellent choice.
• For a more refined meal on a special occasion, opt for a Chianti Classico Riserva, which offers greater complexity and depth.
• To mark a special occasion or as a gift for a collector of fine Italian wines, choose a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione.

There is no such thing as the best Chianti! In reality, it depends largely on your personal taste and the occasion. However, certain wineries remain unmissable for a unique and memorable experience. Among the prestigious producers in this wine-growing region is Dievole, which offers Chianti Classico wines of unrivalled elegance and freshness. Renowned for its unique expertise, the Bindi Sergardi family is also one of the region’s long-established producers. The estates Marchese Antinori, Castello Di Fonterutoli and Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino also produce unique wines with passion and expertise.

These producers, selected by Vinatis experts, offer wines that authentically express the exceptional terroirs of Tuscany.

A Chianti or Chianti Classico red wine reveals its full aromatic richness at a temperature of 16°C to 18°C. Thanks to its freshness, liveliness and fruitiness, a Chianti pairs effortlessly with cold meats and pizzas. A structured and elegant Chianti Classico pairs perfectly with stews, roasted or grilled meats, pasta with tomato sauce, or mature cheeses. A Chianti Classico Riserva or Gran Selezione makes a delicious pairing with slow-cooked dishes, red meats in sauce, or game.

When it comes to the Chianti wine price, one of the strengths of the wine region lies in the diversity of its wine styles, as well as its price range, meaning there is something to suit every budget. If you’re looking for a wine to enjoy during a relaxed tasting session, you can find Chianti wines for less than £10. To get started with Chianti Classico, allow a budget of between just over £10 and around £20, and up to around £30 for a Riserva. A Chianti Gran Selezione is available for around £40 or more.

At Vinatis, Chianti wines receive unanimous praise from our experts and customers alike. Some vintages are praised for their remarkable finesse and complexity, whilst others are commended for their balance and harmony. Some reviews highlight the excellent value for money offered by these wines.

To savour the rich and elegant sensory experience of Chianti wines, discover the very best of this Italian wine-growing region at Vinatis. Find a selection of Chianti and Chianti Classico wines offering unbeatable value for money to accompany your wine-tasting sessions or to add to your wine cellar. Take advantage of our regular special offers to buy your bottle of Chianti at an even better price.