A Guide to Tuscan Wine

Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is a city that blends the Renaissance with modern vitality.  Florence is after all, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, with a treasure trove of art and architecture that will leave you breathless.  It’s also a wine lover’s paradise, and thanks to the perfect combination of soil, sun, and Italian passion, the world gets some of the most exquisite wines.

Picture this: rolling green hills dotted with grapevines, olive trees, and fields of golden wheat, all basking in a climate that’s just right—not too wet, not too dry. It's here that Tuscany's wine making magic happens, turning hand-picked grapes into bottles of pure delight.

Before we dive into all the delicious details, it’s important to remember that wine isn't just a drink in Tuscany; it's a way of life woven into the very fabric of the region's culture! Over the centuries, Tuscan winemakers have honed their craft, experimenting with different grape varieties and techniques to an impressive menu of tantalising wines. 

With so many fantastic options, it can be tough to know where to start your Tuscan wine journey. That's where we come in! We've put together a list of the top 5 Tuscan wines that you absolutely must try.

#1 - The Chianti Classico: The Heart & Soul of Tuscany

This iconic red wine is made with Sangiovese grapes which happens to be the star of the show, making up at least 80% of the blend.  They lend Chianti Classico its characteristic bright acidity, with flavours of cherry, plum, and violets. The wine's signature earthiness comes from the region's unique terroir, a combination of limestone and clay soils.  Chianti Classico is known for its versatility at the table. Its lively acidity makes it a great pairing for tomato-based pasta dishes like spaghetti al pomodoro or ribollita.  It also complements grilled meats and cheeses beautifully.

The production of Chianti Classico is governed by stringent rules to ensure its quality and authenticity. The wine must be aged for a minimum of 12 months before it can be released. There are also different classifications within Chianti Classico:

• Annata, the standard Chianti Classico, aged for at least 12 months.
• Riserva, A higher quality level, aged for at least 24 months, with an additional three months in the bottle.
• Gran Selezione, the top tier, made from the best grapes of a single vineyard or estate, aged for a minimum of 30 months, including three months in the bottle.

Chianti Classico's unique terroir significantly influences the wine's character. The region’s limestone and clay soils, coupled with the warm climate and varied altitudes, provide ideal conditions for growing Sangiovese. These factors contribute to the wine’s signature earthiness and minerality.

Chianti Classico is suitable for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Its approachable yet sophisticated nature makes it a great choice for dinner parties, family gatherings, and celebrations. Whether enjoyed as a casual sip or as part of a formal meal, Chianti Classico brings a touch of Tuscan charm to any occasion. The higher classifications, such as Riserva and Gran Selezione, are particularly well-suited for special events and can age gracefully, making them excellent choices for wine collectors.

---

Taste the heart of Tuscany: Embark on a Chianti Classico wine tour. Browse our tour options and book your journey now!

#2 – Brunello di Montalcino: A Meticulous Production Process

This is one wine that can’t be messed with, and we mean it! So much so, it is against the law to sell this wine before it’s aged five years! To ensure absolute quality, this ageing process includes at least two years in oak barrels, which imparts complex flavours and aromas; it also requires an additional period of refinement in the bottle. Some producers may age their Brunello even longer to develop greater depth and sophistication.

Brunello is made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, specifically a clone known as Sangiovese Grosso, locally referred to as Brunello. The unique terroir of Montalcino, characterised by its varied soil types and favourable climate, significantly contributes to the distinct quality and character of Brunello di Montalcino.3 – Vino Nobile de Montepulciano: Sophisticated & Harmonious

#3 – Vino Nobile de Montepulciano: Sophisticated & Harmonious

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano hails from the historic town of Montepulciano in Tuscany, and is primarily made from the Sangiovese grape, more notably a clone known locally as Prugnolo Gentile. To be classified as Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the wine must contain at least 70% Prugnolo Gentile, with the remainder often comprising other local varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, and occasionally international varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Once again, this wine is governed by strict regulations to maintain its esteemed quality. The wine must be aged for a minimum of two years before it can be released. This ageing process typically includes time spent in oak barrels, which can range from traditional large Slavonian oak casks to smaller French barriques.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is celebrated for its velvety texture and deep, fruity notes. It showcases a brilliant ruby red colour that can develop garnet reflections with age. The aromatic profile is rich and inviting, featuring ripe red fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and plum, interwoven with floral notes of violet. As the wine matures, it reveals secondary aromas of leather, tobacco, and earthy nuances. On the palate, it is well-balanced with a medium to full body, exhibiting smooth tannins, refreshing acidity, and a lingering finish marked by hints of spice and minerality.

#4 – Vernaccia de San Gimignano: The Must Try White

Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a distinguished white wine from the mediaeval town of San Gimignano in Tuscany, Italy. The wine is made from one of Italy’s oldest grape varieties - the Vernaccia grape. Historical records trace the cultivation of Vernaccia in this area back to the 13th century, highlighting its longstanding importance in the region.

Regulations ensure its quality and authenticity, and the wine must be made with at least 85% Vernaccia grapes. There is also an option to blend in up to 15% of other approved white varieties, such as Trebbiano or Chardonnay. The wine typically undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fresh and vibrant character. Some producers may choose to age a portion of their Vernaccia in oak barrels to add complexity and depth. The resulting wine is generally aged for several months before release, allowing it to develop a harmonious and balanced profile.

Vernaccia di San Gimignano is celebrated for its crisp and refreshing nature. It boasts a pale straw-yellow colour with golden highlights. The aroma is inviting and complex, featuring notes of citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit, along with green apple, pear, and white flowers. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied, with lively acidity and a slight mineral undertone that reflects the region’s unique terroir.

#5 - Super Tuscan: The Rebel Wine

Super Tuscans fall into a fascinating category, being incredibly unique and innovative. The term “Super Tuscan” emerged in the 1970s when winemakers in the region began experimenting with blends that did not conform to the strict regulations like the others listed here. Wine makers, frustrated by the limitations imposed by traditional Italian wine laws, sought to create high-quality wines that combined local and international grape varieties. The result was a new category of wines that, despite being classified as IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) or even Vino da Tavola (table wine), quickly gained recognition for their exceptional quality.

Super Tuscans are characterised by their innovative blends, which often include the region’s native Sangiovese grape along with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and sometimes Syrah, Petit Verdot, or Cabernet Franc. The inclusion of these international grapes allows for greater flexibility in winemaking and results in a diverse range of styles. For example, a Super Tuscan might be predominantly Sangiovese with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and depth, or it could be a blend where Merlot plays a significant role, contributing softness and fruitiness to the wine.

Super Tuscans are known for their bold and flavourful profiles. They often exhibit deep, concentrated colours and intense aromas. On the nose, these wines can present a complex array of scents, including dark fruits such as blackberry, black cherry, and plum, alongside notes of spice, tobacco, leather, and vanilla from oak aging.

Several producers have gained international acclaim for their Super Tuscans. Some of the most famous names include Tenuta San Guido (known for Sassicaia), Antinori (known for Tignanello and Solaia), and Ornellaia. These wineries, among others, have set the standard for Super Tuscans, consistently producing wines that command top prices and receive high ratings from critics and connoisseurs alike.

Exploring Tuscan Wineries

A visit to Tuscany wouldn't be complete without venturing beyond Florence to explore the region's picturesque vineyards and charming wineries.  Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings, giving you the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and sample their delicious creations.

---

Taste the rainbow of Tuscan wines: From Chianti Classico to Brunello di Montalcino, discover your perfect pairing.

Here are some quick tips to help you fully enjoy Tuscan wines

• Pair with Food - Tuscan wines are best enjoyed with food.  Experiment with different pairings to discover your favourite combinations.
• Decant - Many Tuscan wines benefit from decanting, which allows the wine to breathe and release its full aroma and flavour.
• Temperature - Serve red wines at room temperature and white wines chilled.
• Explore - Don't be afraid to try different Tuscan wines to discover new favourites.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these top Tuscan wines offer a taste of the region's winemaking excellence. So, grab a glass and let Tuscany’s finest transport you to the rolling hills and sun-drenched vineyards of this enchanting Italian paradise. Cheers!