Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita
The appellation lies in the heart of Tuscany, between the provinces of Florence and Siena. It covers eight communes: four in full (Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti) and four in part (Barberino Tavarnelle, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Poggibonsi and San Casciano in Val di Pesa). The vineyards, planted up to 700 metres above sea level, grow on galestro, a friable marl-based schist, and alberese, a compact limestone, with sandstone in places. The climate is continental, with cool winters and hot, dry summers moderated by altitude and slope exposure. Sangiovese dominates the vineyard, accounting for 80 to 100 percent of the blend, complemented by other red varieties authorised for cultivation in Tuscany. Chianti Classico is a distinct appellation from the surrounding Chianti, corresponding to the historic heartland of this vineyard area.
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Chianti Classico is produced only as a red wine, in three tiers: Annata, Riserva and Gran Selezione. The colour is ruby red, more or less intense, turning garnet with age, particularly in Riserva wines. The nose is intense and floral, recalling violet and iris alongside red fruit. On the palate the wine is dry, fresh and savoury, with fine tannins that soften over time and a firm structure. Annata, the youngest style, reaches at least 12 percent alcohol after a minimum of twelve months' ageing. Riserva requires at least twenty-four months' ageing, including three in bottle, giving a fuller profile. Gran Selezione, made exclusively from estate-grown grapes, ages for at least thirty months, including three in bottle, and develops a spicier, more enveloping character. These wines suit red and grilled meats, Tuscan braised dishes, game and aged cheeses.
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