Chianti Classico

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Overview

Chianti Classico is the heartland of the Chianti zone, originally given its geographical delimitation by the Medici Grand Duke Cosimo III in 1716. In 1932, the original Chianti Classico zone was expanded with six additional subzones – the new larger region is what we know today as Chianti proper and received DOC status in 1967.

However, the larger regional Chianti production was generally focussed on quantity over quality, and it was not until . . . Read More >

Overview

However, the larger regional Chianti production was generally focussed on quantity over quality, and it was not until 1996, when the original 7,000 ha Chianti Classico zone finally became autonomous from the wider region and received its own DOCG with stricter regulations such as a higher minimum of Sangiovese in the blend (80%) and lower yields.

Key Grape Varieties

By law, Chianti Classico has to be made up of minimum 80% Sangiovese, and can then be accessorized by native grape varieties, such as Colorino, and international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Classification

In 2014, a new premium layer for the Chianti Classico wines was introduced, known as ‘Gran Selezione’ (Great Selection). Gran Selezione is a new classification above Riserva, made using grapes harvested only from a winery’s own vineyards and with a higher minimum alcohol, extract, and longer minimum ageing of 30 months with minimum 3 months in bottle. Gran Selezione can be back dated for qualifying wines from the 2010 vintage.

Food Pairing

Top Sangiovese with its juicy acidity and firm tannins pairs well with roast lamb with herbs and garlic, meats such as veal, ribeye, and T-bone. Game such as pheasant and duck also work well. The red fruited and herbaceous profile of Sangiovese makes it a great accompaniment for mushroom risotto, pasta with tomato sauce, lasagna, and pizza, and a variety of cooked Mediterranean vegetables and olive oil. At the end of the meal hard sheep’s milk cheeses like parmigiana and pecorino are good partners.

Key producers

We offer some of the great Chianti Classico wines from the following producers in this appellation: Just click on any of the links below to find them.

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