Wine from Tuscany

Terroir and grape varieties of Tuscany

Tuscany, the heart of Italy, stretches between the Apennines and the Tyrrhenian Sea and offers ideal conditions for viticulture. The region's dry, stony soils, combined with a mild climate, allow the dominant Sangiovese grape to fully develop its character. Sangiovese is the most important grape variety in Tuscany and characterizes almost all of the region's well-known wines. However, international varieties such as Merlot , Cabernet Sauvignon , and Syrah have also established themselves, particularly in coastal areas like Bolgheri.

Chianti & Chianti Classico

The Chianti region stretches from Florence to Siena and is one of Italy's oldest and most famous wine-growing regions. The Sangiovese grape dominates here, and the wine must contain at least 70% of this grape variety. The "Classico" extension refers to the historic heart of the Chianti region. Wines from Chianti Classico must contain at least 80% Sangiovese and may not contain any other white grape varieties.

Chianti Classico is known for its complex aromas of violets, dark berries, and Mediterranean herbs. With its lively acidity and distinctive tannin structure, the wine develops over the years, with Riserva and Gran Selezione varieties aging particularly well and developing balsamic notes.

Brunello di Montalcino

In the south of Tuscany, surrounded by rivers and hills, lies the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino growing region. This wine is made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso, a clone of the Sangiovese grape. The soils, rich in slate and limestone marl, as well as the somewhat warmer temperatures, give Brunello its powerful character. A typical Brunello displays juicy fruit, balsamic notes, and sweet tannins. According to DOCG rules, it may not be released until five years after the harvest at the earliest, with at least two years in oak barrels being mandatory. Its younger brother, the Rosso di Montalcino , is fruitier and lighter and can be sold after just one year.

Bolgheri

On Tuscany's Mediterranean coast, about 50 km south of Livorno, lies the famous Bolgheri wine region. The area owes its fame to Sassicaia , Italy's first single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, first produced in 1968. Bolgheri is home to the so-called Super Tuscans —wines that combine international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc with the Tuscan terroir. The sandy and clay soils, combined with the warm, maritime climate, produce powerful and complex wines. Today, wines from Bolgheri, along with Sassicaia, Ornellaia, and Masseto, are among Italy's most expensive and prestigious wines.

FAQ about wines from Tuscany

What wine do people drink in Tuscany?

Red wines dominate in Tuscany, especially Sangiovese. Wines such as Chianti , Brunello di Montalcino , and the famous Super Tuscans from Bolgheri are internationally acclaimed.

Which Italian wines are available in Tuscany?

In addition to traditional Sangiovese-based wines, Tuscany also produces internationally popular varieties such as Merlot , Cabernet Sauvignon , and Syrah . These grape varieties are particularly successful in coastal regions such as Bolgheri.

Which wine comes from the Tuscany wine-growing region?

Tuscany is known for Chianti , Brunello di Montalcino , and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano . Super Tuscans such as Sassicaia have also achieved worldwide recognition.

Is wine grown in Tuscany?

Yes, Tuscany is one of the most important wine-growing regions in Italy and is known for its expressive red wines.