Chianti

Chianti is one of Italia's most famous wines. Its territory was first designated by the Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici in 1716. As the strength of the brand grew, however, nearby vineyards were itching for a piece of the action. In 1932 the appellation was drastically expanded, with the proviso that the original terretory was allowed to call itself Chianti Classico. When the DOC was created in the 1960's, Chianti was one of the first appellations declared, on August 9th, 1967. Today it encompasses parts of the provinces of Arezzo, Firenze, Pisa, Pistoia, Prato and Siena. The large area of Chianti was declared a DOCG 2 July 1984 and now has been subdivided. The wine is made with Sangiovese (75-100%), Canaiolo Nero (at most 10%), Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia del Chianti (at most 10%), with the rest being other grapes grown in the appellation. At least 11.5% alcohol is required, or 12% to be Superiore, or 12% plus two years aging to be Riserva.

Subappellations:

Chianti Classico
Chianti Colli Aretini
Chianti Colli Fiorentini
Chianti Colli Senesi
Chianti Colline Pisane
Chianti Montalbano
Chianti Montespertoli
Chianti Rùfina
Colli dell'Etruria Centrale
Vin Santo del Chianti
Vin Santo del Chianti Classico

Chianti Vintages:

Aquila d'Oro 2006
Bella Sera 2006
Bolla 2007
Cantine Leonardo da Vinci 2004 2006
Castello di Gabbiano 2002 2004 2005
Familia Cara Riserva 2003
Placido 2004 2005
Ruffino 2006
Tiziano Riserva 2003
Toscolo 2005