Wine Denomination from Tuscany
Chianti Classico DOCG was established in 1996 as a separate denomination from the broader Chianti zone, recognizing the historic significance of this area in Tuscan winemaking. The region has produced wine since at least the 13th century and represents the original core area of Chianti production. Today it stands as one of Italy's most prestigious wine denominations.
The Chianti Classico zone covers approximately 70,000 hectares across the provinces of Florence and Siena in central Tuscany. The area encompasses the communes of Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, and Radda in Chianti, along with portions of Barberino Val d'Elsa, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Poggibonsi, San Casciano in Val di Pesa, and Tavarnelle Val di Pesa. The production area is characterized by rolling hills between 250 and 600 meters elevation.
Chianti Classico must contain a minimum of 80% Sangiovese grapes, which may reach up to 100% of the blend. Up to 20% of other authorized red grape varieties may be used, including both indigenous Tuscan varieties such as Canaiolo and Colorino, and international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. White grapes are not permitted in Chianti Classico production.
Vineyards must be planted on hillside terrain with appropriate exposure and soil drainage. The maximum yield is 7,500 kg per hectare for basic Chianti Classico and 7,000 kg per hectare for Riserva. The wine must achieve a minimum alcohol content of 12% for basic and 12.5% for Riserva. Chianti Classico requires at least 12 months of aging before release, while Riserva must age for a minimum of 24 months, including at least 3 months in bottle.
Chianti Classico displays a ruby red color that becomes garnet with age. The aroma is intense and complex, featuring notes of red cherries, violets, and subtle spice. On the palate, the wine is dry with firm tannins and bright acidity, offering flavors of sour cherry, dried herbs, and earth. Riserva wines develop greater complexity with aging, showing leather, tobacco, and dried fruit notes alongside a more velvety texture.
The Chianti Classico territory sits in the heart of Tuscany between Florence and Siena, with predominantly calcareous clay soils mixed with schist and sandstone known locally as "galestro" and "alberese." The area benefits from a Mediterranean climate moderated by elevation, with warm days and cool nights during the growing season. This diurnal temperature variation helps maintain acidity while allowing phenolic ripeness in the grapes.
Chianti Classico DOCG regulations establish strict quality standards including vineyard density requirements of at least 4,000 vines per hectare and maximum yields of 52.5 hectoliters per hectare. The Gran Selezione category, introduced in 2014, represents the highest tier and requires estate-grown grapes, lower yields, and a minimum of 30 months aging. All Chianti Classico wines must undergo analysis and tasting approval before receiving the distinctive black rooster seal that identifies authentic bottles.