The Heart of Tuscany’s Wine Country

Tuscany, a region nestled in the heart of Italy, is synonymous with picturesque landscapes, rich history, and, perhaps most famously, its exceptional wines. From the rolling hills dotted with cypress trees to the medieval villages that seem frozen in time, Tuscany offers a sensory experience that is as much about taste as it is about sight. For centuries, the region has been producing some of the world’s most celebrated wines, and today, it stands as a mecca for wine enthusiasts. This article will take you on a journey through the rich tapestry of Tuscan wines, focusing on the most iconic varieties: Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and other notable gems that make Tuscany a wine lover’s paradise.

Chianti: The Quintessential Tuscan Wine

When one thinks of Tuscan wine, Chianti is often the first that comes to mind. This iconic wine hails from the Chianti region, which stretches between the cities of Florence and Siena. The Chianti zone is further divided into subregions, with the Chianti Classico zone being the most prestigious.

The History of Chianti

Chianti’s history dates back to the 13th century when the Etruscans first cultivated vines in the region. However, it was in the 18th century that Chianti began to gain recognition as a distinct wine, thanks to the efforts of Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who is often credited with creating the original formula for Chianti. This formula was primarily based on Sangiovese, the grape that still dominates Chianti wines today, with the addition of other local varieties.

The Taste of Chianti

Chianti wines are predominantly made from Sangiovese grapes, which give them their characteristic flavors of red cherries, earth, and a hint of spice. The wine is known for its bright acidity, firm tannins, and medium to full body, making it a versatile companion to a variety of dishes, especially those featuring tomato-based sauces, grilled meats, and aged cheeses.

Chianti Classico wines are particularly notable for their quality, often marked by the Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) seal on the bottle. These wines must adhere to strict regulations regarding grape composition and aging, resulting in a wine that is both expressive and well-balanced.

Brunello di Montalcino: Tuscany’s Crown Jewel

While Chianti may be the most well-known Tuscan wine, Brunello di Montalcino is often regarded as the crown jewel. Produced in the small town of Montalcino, located about 40 kilometers south of Siena, Brunello di Montalcino is a wine that exemplifies the pinnacle of Sangiovese.

The History of Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino’s history is relatively short compared to other Tuscan wines, with its origins dating back to the 19th century. It was Clemente Santi, a local pharmacist, who first recognized the potential of the Sangiovese Grosso clone (a specific type of Sangiovese grape) in the Montalcino area. His grandson, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi, continued his work and is credited with producing the first modern Brunello in the late 19th century.

The Taste of Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso grapes and is known for its intense flavors, complex structure, and remarkable aging potential. The wine typically offers aromas of dark cherries, plums, leather, and spice, with a full-bodied palate that features firm tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Brunello di Montalcino is a wine that demands patience; it must be aged for a minimum of five years before release, with at least two years in oak barrels. However, this aging process results in a wine that can continue to evolve and improve for decades.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Tuscany’s Unsung Hero

While Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino often steal the spotlight, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is another Tuscan wine that deserves recognition. Produced in the hilltop town of Montepulciano, this wine has a rich history and offers a unique expression of Sangiovese.

The History of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano has been produced for centuries and was once considered one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. The wine’s name, which translates to “Noble Wine of Montepulciano,” reflects its historical association with the nobility and its reputation as a wine of high quality.

The Taste of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is made primarily from Prugnolo Gentile, a local clone of Sangiovese, and is often blended with small amounts of other local grape varieties. The wine is known for its balance, elegance, and aging potential. It typically features flavors of red cherries, blackberries, violets, and spice, with a medium to full body and well-integrated tannins.

Like Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano requires aging, with a minimum of two years before release. This aging process enhances the wine’s complexity and ensures that it can be enjoyed for many years.

Super Tuscans: Innovation Meets Tradition

In the 1970s, a new category of Tuscan wines emerged that would challenge the traditional wine classifications and captivate the wine world. These wines, known as Super Tuscans, represented a break from the strict DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) regulations that governed Chianti production.

The Birth of Super Tuscans

Super Tuscans were born out of a desire for innovation and quality. Winemakers began experimenting with non-traditional grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and using new winemaking techniques. The result was wines that were often richer, more powerful, and more internationally appealing than traditional Tuscan wines.

One of the most famous Super Tuscans is Sassicaia, produced by the Tenuta San Guido estate. First released in 1968, Sassicaia was a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, and it quickly gained international acclaim. Other notable Super Tuscans include Tignanello, Ornellaia, and Solaia.

The Taste of Super Tuscans

Super Tuscans vary widely in flavor and style, depending on the grape varieties used and the winemaking techniques employed. However, they are generally known for their bold flavors, rich textures, and aging potential. These wines often feature a combination of ripe fruit, spices, tobacco, and oak, with a full-bodied palate and firm tannins.

Despite their departure from tradition, Super Tuscans have become some of the most sought-after wines in the world, commanding high prices and earning top ratings from critics.

Exploring Tuscany’s Wine Regions

Tuscany is home to a diverse range of wine regions, each offering its own unique expressions of the local terroir. In addition to Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Montepulciano, other notable wine regions include:

• Bolgheri: Located on the Tuscan coast, Bolgheri is the birthplace of the Super Tuscan movement. The region’s warm climate and proximity to the sea make it ideal for growing Bordeaux grape varieties, resulting in powerful and elegant wines.
• Carmignano: One of Tuscany’s oldest wine regions, Carmignano is known for its distinctive blends of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines are rich and full-bodied, with a unique combination of Tuscan and Bordeaux characteristics.
• Maremma: A relatively new wine region located in southern Tuscany, Maremma is known for its diversity of grape varieties and innovative winemaking techniques. The region produces a wide range of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds.

A Journey Through Tuscany’s Wine Heritage

Tuscany’s wines are a reflection of the region’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and passionate winemakers. From the iconic Chianti to the luxurious Brunello di Montalcino, each wine tells a story of the land and the people who have cultivated it for centuries. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, exploring Tuscany’s wine regions offers a journey through tradition, innovation, and the art of winemaking.

At Tours of Tuscany, we invite you to experience the magic of Tuscany’s wines firsthand. Our curated wine tours offer a deep dive into the heart of Tuscany’s wine country, where you can savor the flavors, meet the winemakers, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the region. Join us on this unforgettable journey and discover the wines of Tuscany like never before.