Chianti & Chianti Classico

Wine Style:
Medium in body, the grape typically carries strong tannin, high acidity and flavors of herbs and cherries. Chiantis are usually fruitier, light ruby to garnet colored.

Flavors:

Origin:
Tuscany in Italy

Found:
Italy only

Chianti: A blend of Italian red and white grapes, produced in Tuscany in northeastern Italy. The major component is usually Sangiovese. Over the years there has been a change in the grapes required and it is no longer produced in straw-covered bottles. Chiantis aged for 3 or more years are called Chianti Riservas. Flavors include cherry, leather, and tobacco. Suggested food pairings include Beef Bourguignonne and Flank Steak.

Chianti Classico: From a designated portion of the Chianti wine district. To be labeled Chianti Classico, both vineyard and winery must be within the specified region.

Very few Chianti Classicos contain white grapes. In addition to Sangiovese they often contain Cabernet Sauvignon. Suggested food pairings include Beef Teriyaki and Filet Mignon.

Super Tuscans: They are powerful and in most instances, premium red wines from Tuscany in northern Italy, made in part from the Sangiovese grape and to a lesser extent from the Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux grape varieties. Their history is unique. Starting decades ago, innovative winemakers rejected old-fashioned Italian wine laws that then stipulated, for example, that Chiantis must contain both red and white grapes.

These winemakers made their own wine in their own way. While few Super Tuscans were formally designated as top wines by the Italian wine authorities, many received an enthusiastic reception on the Italian and world markets. Super Tuscans often cost much more than wines carrying a fancier official designation, and believe me, they can be worth it. Suggested food pairings include Roast Beef.

.

Further Reading:
Wikipedia on Chianti
Wikipedia on Chianti Classico
Italian Made
Chianti Classico Consortium