Cellar Raid Highlight: Tuscany & Chianti
Cellar Raid: Half Priced Bottles of 750ml Wine Every Tuesday in our Enoteca.
When one thinks of Tuscany, images of an undulating countryside dotted with cypress trees, medieval hilltop towns, and sprawling vineyards come to mind. In the midst of this idyllic landscape lies Chianti, a region that is both a cultural icon and a viticultural powerhouse. Known for producing some of Italy’s most celebrated wines, Chianti has a history and tradition that is as complex and nuanced as the wines it produces.
The Region & Its History
Chianti, nestled between Florence and Siena is synonymous with Sangiovese, the grape that forms the backbone of its wines. The region’s boundaries have been debated and redefined over centuries, but today, it includes Chianti DOCG and the prestigious Chianti Classico DOCG. Chianti Classico is distinguished by its iconic black rooster Gallo Nero emblem, a symbol of unity and quality that dates back to the Middle Ages.
According to legend, the borders of Chianti were determined by a race between knights from Florence and Siena, which started at dawn. The starting signal was given by a crowing rooster. The Florentines, having starved their black rooster, made it crow early, giving their knight a head start. As a result, Florence claims more of the Chianti territory.
The history of Chianti as a wine-producing area goes back to at least the 13th century, when merchants from Florence and Siena would trade barrels of this bold, red wine. However, it wasn’t until 1716 that Cosimo III de’ Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, set formal boundaries for the production of Chianti wine, making it one of the world’s first regulated regions.
The Wine: A Reflection of Terroir and Tradition
Chianti’s wines are primarily made from Sangiovese, a grape celebrated for its vibrant acidity, cherry flavors, and earthy undertones. Depending on the subzone and producer, Chianti wines can vary from light and fresh to more structured and tannic, making them versatile for a range of food pairings.
The basic Chianti DOCG requires a minimum of 70% Sangiovese, while Chianti Classico DOCG must be at least 80% Sangiovese. Some producers add native varieties like Canaiolo or Colorino, or even international grapes like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to add complexity and body.
One of the hallmarks of Chianti Classico is the Riserva designation, which requires longer aging and results in a deeper, more complex wine with pronounced tannins and refined flavors. For those looking for the crème de la crème, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione offers a selection of top-tier wines that showcase the unique qualities of the region’s best vineyards.
Food & Wine Pairings
Chianti’s high acidity and balanced tannins make it a natural partner for the rich, savory flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Traditional pairings include bistecca alla fiorentina, pappardelle con cinghiale ragù, and aged Pecorino cheese. The wine’s acidity cuts through the fattiness of salumi and formaggi, while its herbal notes complement the earthy flavors of Tuscan herbs and vegetables.
Chianti is more than just a wine - it’s a reflection of Tuscany’s soul, steeped in history and shaped by generations of craftsmanship. With each bottle, you connect to the land, the people, and the traditions that make this region unique. From lively young expressions to complex, age-worthy selections, Chianti offers something for every occasion, bridging the gap between the past and present. This week’s Cellar Raid invites you to delve into the rich character of Chianti, where every sip brings you closer to the stories and flavors of Tuscany’s hillsides. Uncork, savor, and let the journey unfold.
This Week’s Featured Selections:
520B - Chianti Classico Riserva, San Giusto a Rentennano “le Baròncole” 2019
A masterful expression of Sangiovese at its finest. Crafted from organically farmed vineyards, this wine bursts with vibrant red cherries, wild berries, and hints of violet, layered with subtle notes of leather, tobacco, and forest floor. Its impeccable structure - balanced acidity, firm yet refined tannins, and a long, savory finish - makes it both approachable now and perfect for aging. Whether paired with Tuscan fare or enjoyed on its own, “le Baròncole” 2019 delivers elegance, depth, and a true taste of Chianti’s timeless charm.
917B - Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Fontodi “Vigna del Sorbo” 2013
This is a powerhouse wine that showcases the depth and elegance of Sangiovese, blended with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. From one of the finest vineyards in Panzano’s “Conca d’Oro”, it reveals layers of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and plum, underscored by notes of leather, cedar, and Mediterranean herbs. Aged for 24 months in oak, the wine offers velvety tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering, complex finish. With nearly a decade of maturity, it’s drinking beautifully. A perfect match for aged cheeses and game, this is a bottle that embodies the pinnacle of Chianti Classico.
