When you think of Tuscan wine, chances are your first thought is Chianti. One of Italy’s largest and most historic wine regions, Chianti is celebrated for its fresh, elegant wines and timeless landscapes. Within this broader appellation lies its very heart: Chianti Classico—a territory where winemaking has been part of the culture since at least the 13th century.
Grapes & Wines
Both Chianti and Chianti Classico are made primarily from Sangiovese, Tuscany’s flagship red grape. Chianti DOCG requires a minimum of 70% Sangiovese, while Chianti Classico DOCG raises the bar to 80%—with many producers choosing to use 100%.
Small amounts of local grapes such as Canaiolo or Colorino, or international varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, may be added depending on the producer’s style.
The wines are typically medium-bodied, with vibrant red fruit, bright acidity, and notes of dried herbs and spice. Chianti Classico tends to show greater structure, complexity, and age-worthiness—especially when grown at higher altitudes or aged for longer periods.
Aging Requirements
- Standard: minimum 12 months
- Riserva: minimum 24 months
- Gran Selezione: minimum 30 months, made exclusively from estate-grown grapes
Terroir & Style
The Chianti region is a mosaic of microclimates, elevations, and soils—all of which shape the character of the wines. Soils range from galestro (crumbly marl) and alberese (limestone) to clay and sandstone. Altitudes vary between 250 and 600 meters. And finally, climate is typically Mediterranean, though cooler nights in higher vineyards help preserve freshness and aromatic complexity.
Wines from higher elevations tend to be more elegant and perfumed, while those from lower, warmer zones are often richer and more robust. Chianti Classico shows a wide stylistic range, but the best examples always balance vibrant acidity, firm tannins, and a savory, earthy backbone—true reflections of the Tuscan landscape.
History & Reputation
Chianti’s winemaking heritage dates back to the 13th century, when local producers formed guilds to regulate and promote their wines. In 1716, the Grand Duke of Tuscany officially defined the production zone—making Chianti one of the first protected wine regions in the world. Over time, Chianti Classico emerged as the historical and qualitative heart of the area, with stricter rules and deeper roots.
In 1984, Chianti was elevated to DOCG status, and in 1996 Chianti Classico was recognized as a separate DOCG with its own unique regulations. Today, hundreds of producers operate across both regions—from small, family-run estates to internationally renowned wineries.
Ever Wondered Why There’s a Black Rooster on Your Chianti Bottle?
One of the most recognizable symbols of Chianti Classico is the Black Rooster (Gallo Nero), proudly stamped on the neck of every bottle. Its origin, however, lies in a curious medieval rivalry.
According to legend, Florence and Siena agreed to settle a territorial dispute with a horse race: at dawn, each city would release a rider toward the other, and the meeting point would mark their boundary.
Florence, ever shrewd, chose a black rooster as its herald of dawn—but kept it in the dark for days beforehand. When finally released, the ravenous bird crowed far earlier than expected, giving the Florentine rider a decisive head start. As a result, most of the territory went to Florence—and today the Black Rooster endures as the emblem of Chianti Classico and its proud heritage.
Where & How to Taste
While the owners have yet to fully explore the region, we turned to our network of passionate wine lovers to uncover the very best Chianti has to offer. Together with these experienced professionals, we can craft an unforgettable tasting itinerary tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast visiting Tuscany for the first time or a seasoned connoisseur, Chianti offers endless opportunities to taste and discover.
As is tradition in Tuscany, you might enjoy a horizontal tasting at an enoteca to appreciate the breadth of local styles, or opt for visits to renowned estates for vertical tastings across multiple vintages. Many wineries also feature on-site restaurants, allowing you to savor perfect food pairings with regional dishes.
Wineries & Wine Shops
- Marchesi Antinori – One of the most historic and prestigious families in Italian wine, with more than 600 years of heritage. Here, tradition blends effortlessly with innovation and a profound respect for the land—embodied in legendary wines such as Tignanello and Solaia. For those who appreciate bold yet harmonious architecture, their recently constructed cellar is an unmissable stop.
- Ricasoli – Italy’s oldest winery (founded in 1141) and among the most historic in the world. At Brolio Castle, Baron Bettino Ricasoli—who, among other roles, served as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century—created the first “recipe” for Chianti Classico, shaping an appellation that would gain worldwide fame. A visit to the magnificent castle remains an essential part of the experience.
- Castello Vicchiomaggio – A thousand-year-old castle overlooking the Val di Greve, it first served as a military stronghold before becoming an elegant residence—even welcoming Leonardo da Vinci once. Today, it produces acclaimed Chianti Classico wines, and visitors can enjoy guided tastings, pair wines with Tuscan cuisine, and even stay overnight within its historic walls.
- Fèlsina – Purchased by the Poggiali family in the 1960s, Fèlsina has become a true Chianti Classico icon. The estate pioneered the concept of single-vineyard crus, crafting wines made entirely from 100% Sangiovese to showcase the unique character of each plot. Flagship labels such as Rancia, Fontalloro, and Colonia embody this philosophy. In addition, the estate also produces IGT wines where blending with other varieties is permitted.
- Brancaia – Founded in the 1980s by a Swiss couple who fell in love with Tuscany, Brancaia quickly rose to international acclaim. In addition to its acclaimed Chianti Classico, the estate is renowned for its Super Tuscans—Il Blu, a refined blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and Ilatraia, a Cabernet-based wine— both of which are perfect representation of modern Tuscan winemaking.
- Castello di Ama – Situated in Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Ama is celebrated not only for its outstanding wines but also for its deep connection with contemporary art. Each year, world-renowned artists are invited to create site-specific installations throughout the estate, turning the vineyards and historic hamlet into an open-air gallery. On the wine side, Castello di Ama is acclaimed for its iconic labels such as San Lorenzo (a benchmark Chianti Classico Gran Selezione) and L’Apparita (a pure Merlot).
Additional Activities
Enjoy a classic bistecca alla Fiorentina from world-famous butcher Dario Cecchini in Panzano. Explore Greve in Chianti with its triangular piazza and Saturday market, maybe stop at La Cantina del Gallo Nero. For relaxation, soak in the natural hot springs at Rapolano Terme.