Tuscany

La Dolce Vita in a Glass

Tuscany is more than just a wine region – it is a way of life. Rolling hills, cypress trees, medieval villages and wines that rank among Italy's finest.

The Soul of Tuscany: Sangiovese

Sangiovese is the dominant grape variety and the heart of Tuscan wines:

• Aromas: Sour cherry, plum, violet, leather
• Structure: Lively acidity, firm tannins
• Character: Elegant, complex, long-lived
• Food-friendly: Made for Italian cuisine

The Great Wine Regions

Chianti Classico DOCG

The heartland of Tuscan wine culture between Florence and Siena.

• Grape variety: At least 80% Sangiovese
• Quality levels: Chianti Classico, Riserva, Gran Selezione
• Character: Cherry, herbs, lively acidity

"The black rooster (Gallo Nero) is the symbol of authentic Chianti Classico."

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG

The king of Tuscan red wines:

• Grape variety: 100% Sangiovese (known locally as "Brunello")
• Ageing: At least 5 years (Riserva: 6 years)
• Character: Complex, powerful, incredibly long-lived
• Price: €40–500+

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG

The "noble wine" from the town of Montepulciano:

• Grape variety: At least 70% Sangiovese ("Prugnolo Gentile")
• Character: Between Chianti and Brunello
• Value for money: Often excellent

Bolgheri DOC

The home of the Super Tuscans:

• Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
• Style: International, opulent, Bordeaux-like
• Legends: Sassicaia, Ornellaia, Masseto

Super Tuscans: The Revolution

In the 1970s some winemakers rebelled against Italy's strict wine laws:

| Wine | Estate | Grape Varieties | |------|---------|-----------------| | Sassicaia | Tenuta San Guido | Cabernet Sauvignon | | Tignanello | Antinori | Sangiovese, Cabernet | | Ornellaia | Tenuta dell'Ornellaia | Bordeaux Blend | | Solaia | Antinori | Cabernet, Sangiovese |

These wines were sold as simple "Vino da Tavola" – and yet became world-famous!

The Italian Classification System

• DOCG: Highest quality tier (controlled and guaranteed)
• DOC: Controlled designation of origin
• IGT: Country wine (often used for Super Tuscans)
• Vino: Simple table wine

Food Pairing

Tuscan wines and cuisine are perfectly matched:

• Chianti: Pasta al Ragù, Bistecca alla Fiorentina
• Brunello: Wild boar, grilled beef
• Super Tuscan: Lamb, aged Pecorino

The Best Vintages

Outstanding: 2010, 2015, 2016, 2019 Very good: 2012, 2013, 2018

Wine Tourism

Tuscany is a dream destination for wine lovers:

• Estates with accommodation (Agriturismo)
• Historic wineries
• Wine tastings with olive oil and Pecorino
• Best time to visit: September/October (harvest)