What does the Tuscany wine region have to offer its visitors?
For starters, the wines offer both traditional and modern flavors. The famous Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino are made from the main grape variety, Sangiovese. But what else is there?
In this article, I’ll explore this Italian wine region, looking at:
- The overview and history of the Tuscany wine region
- Sangiovese – the King of Tuscan reds
- The hierarchy of Tuscan appellations
- Other notable tuscan wines
- Vin Santo: Tuscany’s dessert wine
- Pairing Tuscan wines with the local cuisine
- Wine tours and tasting Experiences
- Favorite tuscan wine trails
Key Takeaways
- Sangiovese is the star of classic reds like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. You’ll also find international grapes like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in Super Tuscan blends,
- The region has iconic wine styles, including the bold and robust Chianti and the elegant and complex Brunello di Montalcino.
- Chianti pairs beautifully with hearty Tuscan dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), while Vernaccia di San Gimignano complements seafood dishes from the nearby coast.
Tuscan Wine Region: Where Terroir and Tradition Merge
Exploring the Tuscan wine region shows how its history and culture influence the taste of its wines. People have been growing grapes here since ancient times when the Etruscans lived here over 2,000 years ago.
During the Middle Ages, monks and merchants kept the tradition alive. The type of wine made, like strong Chianti Classico or smooth Brunello di Montalcino, is affected by the hilly land and how close it is to the Tyrrhenian Sea. This involves the weather and soil type, giving each wine its unique flavor.
Now, Tuscany has been serious about making top-notch wine since medieval times when the Arte dei Vinattieri guild enforced strict rules about wine quality. This commitment lives on today in modern Tuscan wineries like Tenuta del Buonamico.
They don’t just offer wine tastings; they also give you a glimpse into history. Tuscany has always been innovative, like in the 1300s when they developed the governo technique to make wine better and more stable.
Regarding Tuscan wines, the Sangiovese grape is the star player. It’s the main ingredient in well-known wines like Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Brunello di Montalcino.
But Tuscany’s vineyards also grow other types of grapes, like Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and the local Vernaccia di San Gimignano. This mix adds to the variety of Tuscan wines available.
In the 1970s, a group of rebellious winemakers in Tuscany challenged the traditional rules by making top-notch wines using grapes like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which weren’t typically allowed. These wines, known as Super Tuscans, shook up the scene.
Nowadays, the Tuscan coast, especially the Bolgheri area, is famous for these blends, showing off Tuscany’s bold and forward-thinking attitude toward winemaking.
Whether you enjoy the rich, earthy flavors of Tuscan red wines, the refreshing crispness of whites, or the indulgent sweetness of Vin Santo dessert wine, Tuscany has something for everyone.
Now that we’ve got the terroir and history of the Tuscan region out of the way let’s dive into Sangiovese territory – the star of Tuscan reds.
RELATED: Read about other Italian wine regions here.
Sangiovese – The King of Tuscan Reds
Sangiovese is the main grape in Tuscany, making the region’s famous red wines stand out.
Making up 61% of the vineyards here, Sangiovese is practically the face of winemaking in Tuscany. It’s medium-plus tannins, and high acidity gives these wines their ability to age well over time.
Sangiovese wines from Tuscany are known for their sour cherry and earthy flavors, with subtle hints of tea leaves. While it might not have the most robust aroma, Sangiovese’s unique taste shines through in Tuscan reds, including the famous Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico.
Back in the 19th century, Bettino Ricasoli, an essential figure in Tuscan winemaking, championed local grapes like Sangiovese, helping it become a star in the region’s wines today.
Tuscan wine quality is strictly regulated, especially in Chianti Classico, which holds the prestigious DOCG status. Here, at least 80% of the grapes must be Sangiovese. Through DNA profiling, researchers have traced Sangiovese’s roots to grapes like Ciliegiolo and Calabrese Montenuovo, shedding light on its genetic history.
So, when Bettino Ricasoli advocated for Sangiovese back in the day, it marked a crucial moment in shaping and perfecting Tuscany’s wine scene.
The Hierarchy of Tuscan Appellations
Tuscany is renowned for its three main wine classifications: DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), and IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica).
These classifications indicate varying levels of regulation and quality standards, ensuring that each bottle of Tuscan wine meets certain quality criteria.
In total, Tuscany boasts 78 DOC and 341 DOCG designations, with DOCG being the highest tier, subject to the strictest regulations and quality assurance measures.
While many wines in Tuscany adhere to the strict regulations of DOC or DOCG, not all do. The IGT category is for wines that are still known for their top quality despite not following traditional rules. These wines often showcase innovation in winemaking methods or experimenting with different grape varieties.
Conversely, DOCG titles are highly respected for maintaining exceptional quality standards. Wines with this designation undergo rigorous controls, like requiring Brunello di Montalcino DOCG to be aged for four years before they can be sold.
The Chianti DOCG has several subzones like Rufina, Colli Fiorentini, and Colli Senesi. Each of these areas produces wines with unique flavors and traits. Then, in the 1970s, the Super Tuscans burst onto the scene, breaking away from the traditional rules of DOC or DOCG wines.
These wines often blend in non-native grapes like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and aren’t restricted by the usual appellation laws.
Other Notable Tuscan Wines
Apart from the star players, Sangiovese-based wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany also boasts a variety of other noteworthy wines. Super Tuscans, for instance, are recognized internationally for their quality and command high market prices.
Introduced in the 1970s, Super Tuscan wines challenged traditional DOC/DOCG regulations with high-quality winemaking, with some intentionally remaining outside these classifications.
Diversity in the Tuscan wine region isn’t limited to red wines alone. White wines here, crafted from grape varieties like Trebbiano, Vernaccia, and Vermentino, offer a refreshing alternative to the bold reds. Notably, Vernaccia grapes are the heart of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a renowned white wine that adds a refreshing touch to Tuscany’s wine selection.
Coastal Tuscan Vermentino is gaining popularity, too. It is celebrated for capturing the essence of the local terroir with flavors like yellow peach, apricot, green apple, and citrus. Alongside these, IGT wines also contribute to the rich tapestry of Tuscan wine varieties.
In addition to these, Tuscan vineyards accommodate a diverse range of grape varieties, such as:
- Canaiolo Nero
- Colorino
- Malvasia Bianca Lunga
- Petit Verdot
- Chardonnay
The inclusion of other primary grapes, such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, further enriches Tuscan wines’ diversity.
Vin Santo: Tuscany’s Dessert Wine
When talking about Tuscany’s extraordinary wine history, we can’t forget Vin Santo. This sweet and thick dessert wine shows off Tuscany’s fancy side.
Making Vin Santo is a careful process. First, the grapes are dried on racks to make them sweeter. Then, they ferment and age in wooden barrels for a long time, getting even tastier.
Vin Santo has been around since the Middle Ages and is a big part of Tuscan culture. Traditionally, the fermentation process starts on All Saints’ Day and wraps up by Easter.
The wine matures in special barrels called caratelli, developing a distinctive taste. It can even earn the prestigious Riserva status if it’s aged for four years or more.
A classic Tuscan tradition is enjoying Vin Santo with cantucci cookies. This perfect pairing brings together the rich sweetness of the wine with the crispness of the sweet biscotti, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s hard to beat.
Tuscan Wines and Local Cuisine
Pairing Italian wines, especially Tuscan ones, with local dishes is an art that makes dining even better. The right wine can bring out the flavors of traditional Tuscan meals.
For example, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano go great with bistecca alla Fiorentina. And if you’re having pasta with ragu al cinghiale, Chianti Colli Senesi and Morellino di Scansano are excellent choices.
Bonizio, a blend of Sangiovese, complements the spiciness and richness of cotechino and lentils, a popular New Year’s dish. And if you’re having a high-quality beef dish, like a juicy steak, Riserva di Famiglia, rich in Sangiovese, is a wise choice to bring out all the delicious flavors.
Tuscan white wines, especially from Colli di Luni or Chianti Classico, are an excellent match for a platter of pecorino cheese, honey, and salumi. The fresh and fruity taste of Litorale Vermentino pairs perfectly with white fish caught in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
And if you’re having Vitello tonnato, try La Mora Morellino di Scansano. Its balanced acidity and tannins complement the creamy tuna sauce of the dish wonderfully.
Wine Tours and Tasting Experiences
Planning is crucial to fully enjoying a comprehensive wine-tasting experience in Tuscany.
A one-week trip is recommended to appreciate the tours and the region’s offerings. Access to a car, preferably a compact model, for more straightforward navigation through the countryside and parking is essential for reaching various wineries.
Wine tastings in Tuscany often involve:
- Visits to widely spread out estates necessitating reservations, particularly for those that include guided vineyard tours
- Wear comfortable footwear as you’ll walk and possibly climb stairs during the tours.
- While tipping isn’t a firm rule, it is practiced and appreciated.
For an intimate look into the local wine culture, guided tours in small villages like Greve in Chianti can provide unique insights into the community.
Recommended Tuscan Wine Trails
Exploring the suggested Tuscan wine routes lets you dive into the beauty of the region’s vineyards and wineries.
The Chianti Classico wine trail, famous between Florence and Siena, takes you past vineyards that make the famous Chianti wine. Along the way, you’ll see charming villages like Gaiole and Greve in Chianti, with their stunning views.
The Etruscan wine route leads travelers to the Etruscan Coast near Elba, where they can sample Super Tuscan wines, including the famous Sassicaia, and visit architectural landmarks such as the Petra estate.
The Maremma Wine Route in the Maremma region provides a chance to explore a variety of grape varieties and visit vineyards and cellars like Maremma Toscana Baffo Nero or Maremma Toscana Ciliegiolo.
The Brunello di Montalcino wine route is located in the province of Siena. Visitors can taste the world-famous Brunello di Montalcino red wine and local delicacies such as Pecorino de Pienza cheese.
The ideal time to explore the Tuscan wine routes is during September when the grape harvest occurs, coinciding with local festivals such as Vino al Vino in Panzano.
Summary
Tuscany’s wine scene is a rich mix of tradition and modern flair, offering many different wines that show off its long history and unique flavors.
You’ve got classics like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, made from Sangiovese grapes, as well as newer blends like Super Tuscans that are known worldwide.
But it’s not just about the wine – Tuscany’s stunning views, cute towns, and delicious food make it a must-visit spot for anyone who loves wine or just wants to have a great time.
Whether you’re following old wine trails, trying local dishes, or simply enjoying a glass with a view, Tuscany’s wine culture is something special to experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wine region is near Florence?
The wine region near Florence is Chianti Colli Fiorentini, which boasts centuries-old cantine producing authentic and approachable wines.
What is a Super Tuscan wine region?
A Super Tuscan wine region refers to Tuscany, where these wines are crafted using a blend of Sangiovese and international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, resulting in complex premium wines.
What is the main grape variety used in Tuscan wines?
Sangiovese is the main grape variety used in Tuscan wines, forming the backbone of renowned wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
What is Vin Santo?
Vin Santo is a sweet, dense dessert wine produced in the Tuscany region of Italy through a unique process of drying grapes and aging in wooden barrels. It is known for its rich and sweet flavor.