In recent years, Chianti has made a remarkable comeback in Tuscany. Once burdened by a poor reputation—justifiably so, given its lackluster quality—producers have taken significant steps to transform Chianti from a lowly farmer's wine into an elegant and sophisticated option that is gaining acclaim among critics and wine enthusiasts alike.

As a sommelier based in Tuscany, I take great pleasure in guiding clients on wine tasting tours through the Chianti hills, not just because I am passionate about Chianti (though I may have a bit of bias!). I truly appreciate the incredible potential of Sangiovese, the grape varietal behind Chianti. While Sangiovese can be temperamental and at times even problematic, when handled correctly, it serves as the foundation for some truly spectacular wines. For instance, Brunello, Tuscany’s flagship wine, is crafted entirely from Sangiovese grapes. I hope to share more about this remarkable wine in a future post.

What is Chianti Wine? And What are the Chianti sub-Zones?

The Chianti wine region is a must-visit destination for most travelers to Tuscany, not only for its exceptional wines but also for its breathtaking scenery: rolling hills, sun-kissed vineyards, and charming villages. However, many visitors are unaware that there are several distinct types of Chianti wine, and the region designated for its production is both expansive and diverse.

To make sense of it all, let's start at the beginning. Chianti wine has a rich history, with references dating back to the 14th century in various manuscripts, chronicles, and historical documents. In 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de’ Medici officially defined the first Chianti wine zone—what we now recognize as the Chianti Classico production area—through a decree that outlined the boundaries for Chianti wine production.

However Other makers in bordering territories began to make chianti wine, and legal battles ensued about who may use the name chianti, and how. Forgive me if I skip over years of battles and negotiations, and get straight to where we stand today: Ttoday we have Chianti DOCG, and Chianti classico. Chianti classico (whose bottles are marked with the famous black rooster symbol) can only be made in a small and specific area in the heart of the Chianti hills, an area that stretches, give or take, between the villages of Greve in chianti, Radda in Chianti and Gaiole in Chianti.

It’s Real Chianti Only if It Adheres to the Official Recipe and Regulations

For a wine to earn the designation of Chianti, it must conform to a legal recipe. The original formulation was crafted in the 19th century by Baron Betino Ricasoli, a member of one of Tuscany's most esteemed wine-producing families and later the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Italy. Over the past 200 years, this recipe has undergone significant evolution. The most recent adjustments to the official consortium rules stipulate that a Chianti Classico must be composed of at least 80% Sangiovese grapes, while the superior Chianti Classico Gran Selezione requires a minimum of 90% Sangiovese grapes.

Today, Chianti Classico is categorized into three tiers:

Chianti Classico Annata: The entry-level offering, this wine must be made with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes and up to 20% authorized red grapes, with a minimum aging period of one year.

Chianti Classico Riserva: This category also requires a minimum of 80% Sangiovese grapes and a maximum of 20% authorized red grapes, but demands a longer aging time of 24 months, three of which must be in the bottle.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione: The most prestigious classification, this wine must consist of at least 90% Sangiovese grapes and no more than 10% indigenous red grapes, with a minimum aging period of 30 months, including three months in the bottle.

In summary, the distinction of Chianti is not just about tradition; it is upheld by strict regulations that ensure quality and authenticity.

The Gran Selezione can also possess UGAs—be sure to read my article on this new terroir-drier classification system.

In contrast, Chianti DOCG comes from a much larger region. Due to its vastness and diversity, this area is divided into seven subzones: Chianti Colli Aretini, Chianti Colli Fiorentini, Chianti Colli Senesi, Chianti Colline Pisane, Chianti Montalbano, Chianti Montespertoli, and Chianti Rufina.

Within the CHIANTI D.O.C.G. category, the entry-level version is known as “Annata.” This is the youngest expression of Chianti, so you should perhaps lower your expectations... This isn't the right wine for a serious dinner; instead, it offers a fruity profile that is straightforward and budget-friendly.

A step up is the Chianti Superiore DOCG, which adheres to regulations requiring lower yields per hectare and a minimum aging of one year.

The top choice is Chianti DOCG Riserva, characterized by its sophistication and balance. The selection of grapes is more meticulous, and it requires a minimum aging period of 24 months. This results in a wine with greater body, a complex bouquet of berries, earthy notes, and hints of vanilla when aged in wood, along with silkier tannins and an improved mouthfeel.

Which Chianti Wine is the Best?

It’s a question I get frequently, but the answer is far from straightforward! Each category boasts its own remarkable Chianti bottles. For instance, I adore the finesse and elegance of a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione from Lamole di Lamole (which I've also recommended in my guidebook, Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist). Additionally, I thoroughly enjoy the Chianti produced in the Rufina subzone, as well as some surprisingly excellent Chianti from the Colli Arettini (Arezzo hills)—definitely try the wines from Sette Ponti winery.

I've dedicated a separate post to Chianti Rufina (click here to learn more). As for the Chianti Classico wines I love, they deserve their own spotlight!

Chianti Wine Tour - Make the Most Out Of Your Tuscan Vacation!

The best way to learn about wine is to experience it. If you are curious to learn more, I'd love to take you on one of my shamelessly hedonistic food and wine adventures :) A private or small group wine tasting tour in the enchanting Chianti hills is the perfect way to discover the soul of Tuscany. On these tours we explore some of the best vineyards, discover hidden gems, and even visit local farms that produce delicious cheeses perfectly paired with Chianti. Private full-day wine tours start at €175 per person. Email us for a free quote: ariela@hamagaf.com