Chianti (30)

The name Chianti was already used in the 13th century. Back then, however, it referred to a white wine. It wasn't until the 19th century that Chianti slowly developed into the delicious dry red wine that it is today. In this country, the drop has been popular since the 1940s, and in both senses: increasingly enjoyed, a song has even been dedicated to Chianti which is still regularly broadcast. Moreover, the red wine from Tuscany is considered a synonym for Italian wine par excellence. The current edition of this export bestseller can be ordered from us.

Chianti: Versatile in Taste

With 75 percent, the red Sangiovese grape is the number 1 grape variety in Chianti wine. The remaining cuvée consists of 15 percent Canaiolo and 10 percent other varieties, such as Malvasia or Trebbiano. So how does a typical Chianti wine taste? Fruity hints of cherry, blackberry, or dried plum, along with elegant acidity and a pleasantly fuzzy tannin make up the basic description of Chianti wine. Depending on the terroir, the percentage mix of the grapes and the use of various spices like coffee, leather, or tobacco in this Italian red wine can vary. This gives the Chianti wine its tasting versatility, with a spectrum that extends to the sweet dessert wines Vin Santo del Chianti Classico and Vin Santo del Chianti. 

Origin & Region of the Chianti Red Wine

The original Chianti wine region is considered to be the area between Florence and Siena, along the Via Chiantigiana, which showcases beautiful vineyards, romantic little towns, and impressive castles. Over the past centuries, the Chianti wine area's origin has expanded.

Chianti Classico - the Number 1 Among Chiantis

Although all products from the mentioned regions bear the name Chianti and have DOCG status, connoisseurs differentiate between the quality of Chianti wine. The name Chianti Classico may only be used by wines from the original cultivation area. A trademark of the Classico is the black rooster on the label, the gallo nero. It stands for the highest quality. As the best Chianti wine, the Classico is subject to strict production regulations, contains the highest proportion of Sangiovese, and is the only Chianti that cannot be blended with white grape varieties. The Classico vintages 2012, 2013, and 2014 are particularly highly regarded. The 2012 wines are described as precise, with fine fruit and robust tannin, while the 2013 wines are considered well-balanced, and the 2014 vintage surprised with expressiveness and slightly elevated acidity.

Chianti DOCG wine that does not come from the traditional area must have a geographic designation in its name. Nevertheless, this is still a good Chianti wine. The sweet wines Vin Santo del Chianti Classico and Vin Santo del Chianti have DOC status. They round off the rich Chianti repertoire. 

The Gallo Nero Pyramid - Quality Levels for Chianti Classico

Winemakers and wine connoisseurs further differentiate Chianti Classico red wine into 3 types, which differ in sensory properties and aging duration. The Chianti Classico winemakers must decide from the outset which status the respective wine is recommended for.

Chianti Classico Annata

The Chianti Classico wines under the designation Annata represent the lowest level of the so-called Gallo Nero Pyramid. The wines are only subject to specific chemical values and organoleptic properties. While Chianti Classico Annata wines form the lowest quality tier, they are still considered excellent wines - they are, after all, Chianti Classico.

Chianti Classico Riserva

The middle tier of the pyramid also stipulates specific chemical and sensory properties, but adds a mandatory aging period of at least 24 months, of which 3 months must be in the bottle.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione

The Gran Selezione status is reserved for the finest Chianti Classico red wines. Strict regulations regarding chemical parameters and sensory properties, as well as a mandatory aging period of at least 30 months, 3 of which must be in the bottle, form the basis for the highest level of the Gallo Nero Pyramid. For a Gran Selezione Chianti Classico, it must also be noted that the grapes come from a single appellation or represent a selection of the best grapes from the winery. A Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is characterized by its ruby red color and promises spicy and deep aromas. The dry and harmonious taste is supported by at least 13% alcohol by volume and a maximum acidity of 4.5 g per liter.

Gallo Nero - the Legendary Black Rooster of Chianti

Chianti Classico is inseparably linked to the Gallo Nero. The black rooster adorns the bottle's label and signifies not only high quality but also reminds us of tradition, history, and the present. The Gallo Nero is omnipresent in the Chianti region, as a historical symbol of the Chianti military league, as a motif in numerous frescoes, and as the namesake for various restaurants and wine shops.

Animal Geopolitical Measures

An illustrious legend from the Middle Ages surrounds the black rooster. Florence and Siena fought for control over the Chianti territories. To finally put an end to these disputes, the republics of Siena and Florence decided to establish the borders once and for all. This was to be accomplished by two knights who would ride from their respective cities toward the other city. The border would be drawn where both knights would meet.

As a starting signal for the riders, they decided on the crowing of a rooster at sunrise. A white rooster was chosen for Siena, while Florence opted for a black rooster, which was nearly starved in a dark chicken coop.

Long before sunrise, the rooster was freed from the coop. The black rooster immediately began to crow, allowing the knight from Florence to set off toward Siena. The head start of the rider from Florence was so immense that the future border was established just 12 kilometers from Siena. Almost the entire Chianti region thus fell under the control of the Republic of Florence.

Drinking & Food Recommendations for Enjoying Chianti

Simple Chiantis can be stored for up to three years. However, as they usually do not develop much further, they are best enjoyed young. The optimal serving temperature for Chianti wine is between 16-18 degrees. Additional decanting in a wine carafe enhances the flavor. Suitable pairings with young Chianti wines include tartare, grilled meats, pasta, and tomato dishes. Classicos have a storage potential of up to 10 years. They offer a culinary experience when paired with beef goulash, lamb, or crispy duck.

Serving Chianti Properly

To enjoy the full potential of a Chianti red wine, it is advisable to let the wine breathe for a few hours. A wine carafe ensures that all aromas can fully develop. The optimal drinking temperature is between 16 and 18°C. If the Chianti is too cold, the acidity is more pronounced; if it is too warm, the alcohol overshadows the aromas. To reflect the full fruit and the seductive aromas in the glass, it is worth using a tulip-shaped wine glass. This way, one can experience the round bouquet of the Chianti wine from Tuscany with every sip and every sniff.

Buy Chianti Online at VINELLO

Whether you want to enjoy your dry red wine with light snacks, with an opulent meal, or simply on its own, we at Weindepot Vinello guarantee you a quick and uncomplicated drinking pleasure in Italian style. With selections from our extensive range, cork guarantee, secure shopping, prompt shipping, and immediate delivery, purchase on account from the first order, as well as other payment options, Vinello customers clearly have an advantage. On top of that, you save time for the essential things in life: the Chianti wine and enjoyment.