The Chianti wine region is one of the most famous in all of Italy thanks to its high-quality wines and picture-perfect surroundings. But, where exactly is the Chianti wine region in Italy? What sets it apart from other wine regions? And, how can you visit? As Italian travel experts, we’ll answer all these questions and more below.
Where is the Chianti Wine Region in Italy?
The Chianti wine region—also called the Monti del Chianti or Colline del Chianti (Chianti Mountains or Chianti Hills)—is located in central Italy, in the highlands of Tuscany. It comprises 172,900 acres of both picturesque plains and rolling hills. This area is easily accessible from must-visit cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa.
Chianti Wine Region History
The territory called Chianti has been used for winemaking for generations—there are records of wine production in the area as early as the 13th century. Chianti is also known as the world’s first demarcated wine region. In 1716, the Grand Duke of Tuscany officially recognized the Chianti district, defining it as a wine region, and setting various regulations for vinification within its borders. Today, the area that the duke defined is known as the Chianti Classico subregion.
Over the years, demand for Chianti wine grew. However, it wasn’t until 1932 that a wine classification of DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) was given to Chianti Classico (the area between Florence and Siena) and Chianti (the rest of the region). To earn this prestigious classification, producers in the Chianti region must meet a strict set of standards, including having their wines tasted by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Another interesting piece of Chianti wine history is found in the origins of the Black Rooster, now recognizable as a seal on Chianti wines. This Black Rooster was a symbol of a 14th-century political institution that was created to rule over the area now known as Chianti and has represented the region ever since. In 1924, this symbol was chosen by a consortium of wine producers who came together to uphold the high standards for Chianti wine and protect its “brand.”
What Makes the Chianti Wine Region Special?
The Chianti wine region is best known for its high-quality red wines made from the Sangiovese grape. Because of the rugged hills and cool air from the swaths of forests typical of the region, the Sangiovese grown in Chianti comes out with a more floral expression than Sangiovese from other parts of Italy. The region’s lower-altitude vineyards produce bolder, more fruit-forward Sangiovese wines.
Although climate change threatens wine production throughout Italy, its effects are somewhat lessened in Chianti thanks to the combination of river valleys and dense woodlands. These geographical features stabilize the cooler microclimate that allows for slower grape ripening, leading to more complex flavors that develop in the grapes over time. The area still has a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and autumns that impact flavor and tannin development. Meanwhile, winters are mild but wet, much like in the Bordeaux wine region of France. This helps maintain the soil health and balance out the strong summer sun.
Another unique aspect of the Chianti terroir is the limestone in the soil (at least in the central and southern part of the wine region) that helps bring out the acidity of the grapes. Sandstone in the higher altitudes creates a more refined and floral quality in the wines, while shale helps to create more robust wines.
The Chianti wine region of Italy may be known for its long-held traditions, but that doesn’t mean it’s old-fashioned. In fact, winemakers in the region are combining tradition with innovation, as evidenced by the new geographical system called Unità Geografiche Aggiuntive which was introduced in 2023. This new system for dividing up the region creates 11 unique, demarcated districts that harken back to the area’s roots, separating subregions based on their history.
What Kind of Wines Come from the Chianti Wine Region?
There are lots of different wines made in the Chianti region. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common and recognizable varietals, along with some suggested food pairings to get your mouth watering. And, since tomatoes are at the heart of Tuscan cooking, all of these wines pair greatly with tomato-based dishes.
Chianti Classico
In order to be called Chianti Classico, a wine from the subregion has to be made with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. Typically, Chianti Classico wine is medium-bodied and offers notes of cherry, herbs, and cured meats. It provides a relatively “firm” drinking experience and medium-to-high acidity. Vintages vary a lot, with warm and dry years bringing greater ripeness and richness.
Suggested pairings: White meats, oily fish.
Chianti Classico Riserva
During good vintages, producers also make a riserva version of their Chianti to show off their best grapes. These are Chianti Classico wines, aged at least 27 months in oak at the winery, and must have 12.5% alcohol content rather than the 12% required for regular Chianti Classico. The flavor profile is cherry, fig, spices, leather, and vanilla.
Suggested pairing: Steak, game meat, rich pasta sauces.
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione
This is the ultimate expression of Chianti Classico, requiring at least 80% Sangiovese (90% starting in 2027) and a minimum of 30 months of aging. The result is deeper flavors like ripe cherry, fig, balsamic, sundried tomato, and tobacco with a much richer texture than its counterparts. It also must be 13% alcohol.
Suggested pairings: Hearty dishes like stewed meats and aged cheeses.
Vin Santo
Although not exclusive to Chianti, some of the best Vin Santo are made with grapes from the Chianti wine region. This is a dessert wine. It’s amber in color and made with white grapes like Malvasia and Trebbiano that grow throughout Tuscany.
Suggested pairings: Creamy cheeses and sweet pastries.
Why Visit the Chianti Region
Whether or not you’re a wine aficionado, the Chianti Region of Italy is worth a visit. This particularly scenic part of Tuscany provides easy access to major tourist destinations like Florence and Siena. Here you’ll find natural beauty, a sense of tradition, and a slow pace of life that makes for the perfect escape from the modern-day hustle and bustle.
The Chianti Classico region includes about 177,500 acres between Florence and Siena and Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti, Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti.
Here are some highlights in each town for your itinerary along with the characteristics of wines produced in these areas. All five towns are part of the Chianti Classico DOCG region, with nuanced differences in their wines due to variations in terroir. You can visit some of these as a day trip from Florence or spend a few days in the idyllic countryside exploring them and sipping along the way.
Greve in Chianti
This lively town has a strong culinary and wine culture and hosts the annual Chianti Classico Wine Festival. With its beautiful triangular piazza, wine shops, and the Wine Museum (Museo del Vino), it is a must on your Chianti itinerary. While there, pop into Enoteca Falorni in the town’s main piazza, Piazza Matteotti, where you can taste more than 100 wines.
Wines produced in Greve are known for being balanced and elegant wines often showcasing ripe red and black fruits, with earthy and herbal undertones and approachable tannins. This is due to the unique mix of elevation and soil rich in marl and limestone. Greve is home to renowned wineries like Castello di Verrazzano and Montefioralle.
Panzano in Chianti
This small village has a big reputation for wine and food. It’s where carnivores flock to savor the famed Bistecca Fiorentina and the Antica Macelleria CECCHINI, owned by a world-renowned, eighth-generation butcher, Dario Cecchini. These local meats pair perfectly with the bold and structured regional wines. The local wines showcase concentrated fruit flavors (black cherries, plums), savory notes of tobacco and leather, and excellent aging potential. Wineries like Fontodi and Le Cinciole focus on sustainable practices and high-quality wines.
Radda in Chianti
A quintessential medieval hilltop town, Radda in Chianti boasts charming streets, panoramic views, and a deep connection to the region’s winemaking traditions. Visit the Castello di Radda for expert tastings or embark on a sensory journey at Casa Chianti Classico.
The region’s high elevations and cooler temperatures give the wines vibrant acidity and a leaner structure. Wines from Radda are often elegant and aromatic, with notes of red fruits, violets, and spices. These well-balanced wines have refreshing acidity and minerality with excellent aging potential. Radda is home to Castello di Volpaia winery which has consistently ranked high on Wine Spectator’s list of top wines.
Gaiole in Chianti
This charming town is known for its picturesque landscapes, wine culture, and historic landmarks. The Castello di Brolio is a stunning castle with centuries of history and has been home to the Ricasoli family since 1141. It was here in the 19th century that Baron Bettino Ricasoli penned the original recipe for Chianti wine: a blend of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo, and 15% Malvasia Bianca. The wines produced in Gaiole in Chianti benefit from the diverse soils, including limestone, clay, and schist, which add minerality and depth.
Castellina in Chianti
This hilltop town is steeped in history where you can enjoy breathtaking views, archaeological treasures, and exceptional wine. In the town’s center, there are numerous wineries and enotecas (wine shops) that offer tastings. Enjoy farm-to-table restaurants that feature seasonal ingredients and classic Tuscan dishes.
The Via delle Volte is a medieval underground walkway lined with small shops and restaurants. Due to higher elevations and cooler temperatures, Castellina’s wines often have a more floral and elegant profile. Visit one of the top wineries in the area, Castellare di Castellina.
The best way to visit Chianti is with a customized luxury trip that takes all your preferences, interests, and desires into account. At Luxury Italian Tours, we have decades of experience welcoming guests to Italy with entirely customized vacations complete with upscale accommodations, must-do and off-the-beaten-path activities, and memorable meals. If you’re interested in exploring the Chianti wine region and want to learn more about a luxury tour tailored to you, get in touch!
Leave a Reply