Tuscany boasts 29 DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and 7 DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), a splendid abundance of wines within 22,985 km2… Terrific! Today, let us delve deeper into five Tuscan wines you need to know: Chianti Classico, Chianti, Super Tuscans, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

At the heart of Toscana lies the Sangiovese grape. This grape is very sensitive to the unique characteristics of each territory, in fact it is used in many appellations in Tuscany (Chianti, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) which are in different areas of this enchanting region, yielding wines completely diverse.

Starting our 5 Tuscan Wines Trip

Let us begin with Chianti and Chianti Classico, two distinct DOCGs (designation of controlled and guaranteed origin). The two primary differences are:

• The cultivated territory. Chianti Classico represents the original Chianti region (established in 1716 by Cosimo Medici) and spans a modest 260km2 between Florence and Siena. These hills, richly wooded, bear their influence upon the wine and you may find red, dry, usually velvety wines. Chianti, on the other hand, is produced around this zone and is, geographically, the widest in Tuscany, and they are usually younger and fresher wines, ideal for an aperitivo.
• The «rules» of production, which are more stringent in the case of Chianti Classico, which include, for example, longer aging before being bottled. A Chianti Classico, with few exceptions, embodies a wine of elevated quality. How can you recognize it? Besides the word «Classico,» observe if it carries a Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) upon the bottle.

 

And what of the Super Tuscans? They are not a denomination of origin. Instead, they constitute a unique category of exceptionally high-quality wines. They emerged from the need of certain producers to break free from the «restraints» of DOCGs, enabling them to explore and create wines of distinct character. They blend expertise, quality, and the rich historical heritage of Tuscany with new coupages, primarily incorporating French varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Travelling South

On another note, both Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are produced south of the city of Siena, each boasting its own DOCG. In these lands lie those evocative Tuscan hills that make you dream of staring at them forever, with a glass of wine in hand. Do you recall our discussion on the impact of the territory on the Sangiovese grape? In my opinion, the case of Brunello di Montalcino is most spectacular. Crafted solely with Sangiovese grapes in Montalcino (80 km from Florence), these wines undergo long aging, embodying intensity, tannins, and full-bodied richness. It is truly one of Italy’s most esteemed DOCGs.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of the smallest DOCGs, may reside somewhat in the shadow of Chianti or Brunello. But do not be deceived by its lesser renown, for it is a delightful, rounded, and utterly enjoyable wine. While many producers use solely Sangiovese or Prugnolo Gentile grapes for their wines, the minimum requirement in this case is 70%, and one can find intriguing blends with Canaiolo or Mammolo, for instance.

If you ever have the opportunity to taste these Tuscany wines «in situ,» allow yourself to be swept away by the history, art, gastronomy, and beauty of a Tuscany that will grant you limitless enjoyment. At Some Wine&Travel, we embarked on a journey and fell in love with exploring small Tuscan wineries, away from the crowded tours.

Places like Castello di Ama and Brancaia stole our hearts as we savored their Chianti Classico and Super Tuscan wines. We also had the pleasure of discovering Istine winery, a charming family-owned estate that crafts a delightful Chianti Classico, proudly featured in the renowned «Slow Wine» guide.

Immersing ourselves further, we indulged in several red wine tastings in Montalcino and Montepulciano. Our hearts were captivated as we wandered through the enchanting landscapes of Castellina in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, Pienza, Poggibonsi (a perfect base for your Tuscany wine tour), Siena, and Florence, embracing the essence of each place.

Want to try all these wines? Contact us to organize an unforgettable journey through the essence of Tuscan wine.