Be it movie characters or real-life wine aficionados, everyone loves a good glass of Chianti. Such is the fame of Chianti that for many, this Italian product is almost synonymous with red wine. But what grapes are in Chianti, exactly? Keep reading to find out.
What Is Chianti? A Brief History of Chianti
Chianti is a type of Italian wine that has been produced in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy for centuries.
This wine is typically light to medium-bodied, with vibrant acidity and moderate tannin levels. Chianti can range from simple and fruity to complex and earthy, depending on its age and where it’s produced.
Chianti displays a characteristic, vibrant ruby-red color, which tends to get darker as the wine ages. Chianti pairs well with various types of food, particularly pasta dishes and red sauces. Its classic flavors make it one of the most popular wines worldwide.
What Grapes Are in Chianti?
Chianti is made from a blend of grape varieties that vary depending on the exact area within Chianti.
Four grapes are used to produce Chianti: Sangiovese, canaiolo nero, trebbiano Toscano, and malvasia del Chianti.
There are different types of Chianti, with the most prized being Chianti classico DOCG, which comes from Chianti’s most ancient production zone. This area is delimited by Italian law and includes localities such as San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Greve, Radda in Chianti, and Castellina in Chianti, among others.
The acronym DOCG stands for Denominazione d’Origine Controllata e Garantita (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin), an Italian system for certifying wine regions and wine names. DOCG wines undergo more stringent requirements than those labeled DOC, Denominazione d’Origine Controllata (Denomination of Controlled Origin).
If you are looking for an enticing red wine, Chianti is never without complexity and offers an incredibly smooth finish, making it perfect for any occasion.
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