TUSCAN WINES

Located in the heart of Italy, Tuscany borders Liguria and Emilia-Romagna to the north, Umbria and Marche to the east, and Lazio to the south, bordered to the west by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The picturesque hills adorned with medieval villages and majestic cypress-lined avenues not only captivate visitors but also contribute to the renown of its wines.

TUSCAN WINES: AN INCREDIBLE STORY WRITTEN BY THE TERROIR

The rich and fascinating history of Tuscan wines dates back to the 7th century BC, evidenced by the discovery of ancient wine amphorae in the region. During the Roman Empire, wine became an essential part of daily life, particularly among the upper social classes.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, numerous wine-producing families emerged in Tuscany, some of which, like the Marchesi de' Frescobaldi, the Marchesi Antinori, and Baron Ricasoli, are still renowned historic and respected producers in the industry today.

In 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici outlined the boundaries of the Chianti region for the production of high-quality Tuscan wines, establishing the first legally binding DOC in the history of wine, a significant milestone in the world of winemaking.

The climate plays a crucial role in the success of Tuscan wines. The coastal areas enjoy a temperate climate, while the inland regions feature rolling hills. Temperature variations during the day help maintain the balance between sugars, acidity, and grape aromas. Generous hours of sunlight, especially in the lower valley areas, promote the growth of Sangiovese grapes.

Precipitation mainly occurs during the milder months of autumn and winter, with occasional winter snowfall. The hilly landscape protects the vineyards from damage caused by cold spring winds. However, recent droughts have posed a challenge for the region's vineyards, resulting in reduced yields.

TUSCAN WINE: A HERITAGE OF ART AND TRADITION

Tuscany boasts a worldwide reputation in the wine world, recognized by connoisseurs and enthusiasts from all over the globe. This reputation is primarily associated with its dry red wines, known for the predominance of Sangiovese in production. The triad composed of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano embodies the heart and soul of this extraordinary terroir.

Sangiovese, without a doubt, is the undisputed protagonist of this region, representing a significant portion of Tuscany's vineyard surface. This grape variety goes by different names depending on the area and production zones. In the Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Brunello di Montalcino designations, Sangiovese emerges as the principal variety, each imparting a unique version of this noble grape.

However, Tuscany is not limited to these famous designations. In fact, it hosts a total of 41 DOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) and 11 DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) designations, which officially recognize and protect wines of excellence. Additionally, there are six IGP/IGT (Protected Geographical Indication) designations, including the widespread Toscana IGT, which accounts for almost a quarter of the region's total wine production.

Toscana IGT, despite being one of the many IGTs found in Italy, is a specific recognition for the Tuscan region and includes most of the so-called "Super Tuscans". Some of these, like the famous Sassicaia, fall under the Bolgheri DOC label, which allows the use of international grape varieties.

The Super Tuscans Wines, known for their diversity of international grape varieties, have significantly contributed to elevating the prestige of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other varietals in the Tuscan wine scene.

One of the most esteemed Tuscan wines that garner great interest among wine enthusiasts is Sassicaia, an extraordinary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, originating from the coastal region of Bolgheri. This renowned Tuscan wine serves as a tangible example of the diversity and innovation present in Tuscan winemaking culture.

With the evolution of regulations, some Super Tuscan red wines can now be classified as Chianti Classico DOCG, although most still prefer the Toscana IGT designation for its greater flexibility.

The fundamental difference between Chianti and Super Tuscans lies primarily in the regulations. Chianti is predominantly Sangiovese-based, while Super Tuscan wines can include a variety of international grape varieties. Chianti is bound by strict DOCG regulations, whereas Super Tuscans follow more flexible guidelines under the IGT Toscana designation.

The term Super Tuscan wine was coined to distinguish these exceptional wines from common table wines. Over time, the IGT Toscana label has become the preferred choice for Super Tuscan wine producers, offering a more flexible classification for high-quality wines.

TUSCAN RED WINE: ITALY'S OENOLOGICAL JEWEL

In the realm of red wines, Tuscany is renowned for its numerous prestigious designations. Brunello, Bolgheri, Morellino di Scansano, Chianti Classico, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano stand out as some of the most celebrated. Each of these fine wines derives its distinctive character from the use of Sangiovese grapes, revealing the diversified richness of the regional terroir.

Brunello di Montalcino, with roots dating back to the 19th century, stands as one of the most refined Tuscan red wines. Its DOCG classification establishes strict production rules, requiring a minimum aging of two years in wood and four months in the bottle, ensuring the creation of an excellent product.

This extraordinary Tuscan red wine takes its name from the local black grape, affectionately referred to as "brunello" by the people of that time. Today, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is produced according to rigorous guidelines, with a maximum yield of 80 quintals per hectare and a minimum maturation period of five years before being released to the market.

A relative of Brunello, Rosso di Montalcino, is also primarily made from Sangiovese Grosso grapes but is intended for earlier consumption, being available just a year after the harvest.

Bolgheri, a relatively young designation, is famous for producing wines derived from international grape varieties. Bolgheri DOC offers a wide range of choices, spanning from single-varietal labels to Bordeaux blends that include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Sangiovese, and other grapes.

The history of the Bolgheri designation is more recent but equally fascinating, thanks to the vision of Marchese Mario Inciso della Rocchetta, who sought to create exceptional wines from international grape varieties in Tuscany. The famous Viale dei Cipressi, immortalized by Carducci, now symbolizes Bolgheri DOC and is even featured in the consortium's logo.

Bolgheri offers various types of wine, from Bolgheri DOC, often crafted as pure Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Cabernet Franc, to blends that may include Syrah, Sangiovese, or other complementary red grape varieties like Petit Verdot. The Bolgheri Superiore designation shares the same grape mix but features lower grape yields and higher alcohol content.

The DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia is unique in Italy, residing entirely on a single estate, Tenuta San Guido, and requires at least 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the possibility of other redberry grape varieties.

Chianti, the ultimate symbol of Tuscan wine production, represents a tradition dating back to ancient times. Count Bettino Ricasoli in the 19th century defined the regions, grape varieties, and techniques for this wine, but its origins go even further back in time. As early as 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici issued a law regulating wine regions, including Chianti, Pomino, Carmignano, and Val d'Arno di Sopra.

Chianti has long been symbolized by the traditional straw-covered flask, known worldwide as a symbol of affordable wine in terms of price and quality. Fortunately, things have changed: the various versions of Chianti (such as Chianti Classico DOCG and Chianti DOCG with its seven subzones) represent a resurgence of Italian winemaking, both in terms of quality and image.

In the past, the Chianti territory coincided with the municipalities of Gaiole, Radda, and Castellina in Chianti in the province of Siena, forming the Chianti Province. These locations make up the core of Chianti Classico, but the designated area as "Chianti Classico" is broader, encompassing other areas in the provinces of Florence and Siena.

The area included in the Chianti DOCG designation also extends to the provinces of Pisa and Arezzo, showcasing the complexity of the region through its seven subzones. The Gallo Nero (Black Rooster), the distinctive symbol, proudly graces the labels of this globally renowned Tuscan wine, contributing to its fame.

Morellino di Scansano stands out for the style of Sangiovese it can achieve in southern Tuscany. Here, the grape reaches different levels of ripeness compared to its northern counterparts, resulting in a softer and more flavorful wine. The regulations require that at least 85% of the wine is produced from this variety, with the remaining portion coming from other permitted Tuscan red grapes.

TRADITION AND INNOVATION OF TUSCAN WHITE WINES

Tuscan white wines boast a rich and prestigious history. Since the Middle Ages, with Florence and Siena holding prominent political positions, the region's wine production gained high commercial value. Vernaccia di San Gimignano, already celebrated at the time and mentioned by poets such as Cecco Angiolieri and Dante Alighieri, was a symbol of excellence. In fact, in Canto XXIV of the Purgatorio, Dante refers to Vernaccia as a purifying wine.

In addition to these age-old traditions, new wines of value, made from local and international grape varieties, have emerged. Along the coast, varieties like Vermentino and Ansonica, well-suited to the maritime climate, offer fresh, expressive, and savory wines.

In the Chianti region, grape varieties like Malvasia Bianca Lunga and Trebbiano Toscano once used as a support for Tuscan red wines, are now often destined for the production of Vin Santo. Trebbiano is widespread throughout the region, used on its own or in blends for simpler and pleasant wines.

International grape varieties like Chardonnay, Viognier, and Sauvignon Blanc have found success, particularly in Pomino. Some wines, such as those based on Chardonnay, fall under the generic Toscana IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) designation, although there are more territorial and niche productions like Ansonica from the Costa Argentario and Ansonica from Elba.

Many interpretations of international grape varieties fall into the IGT category, not because they are of lower quality, but because they do not meet specific territorial requirements. Today, there is a growing trend to produce Chardonnay in a Burgundian style, using barriques. These wines compete for elegance and aging potential with the most famous Tuscan wines.

Another, although less common, trend is a return to the practice of skin maceration, producing rustic and intense "orange wines" with a distinctive character. Many producers, however, prefer to offer immediate, fresh, and easy-to-drink Tuscan white wines as an alternative to reds, with a personality of their own.

ITALIANWINELOVER: DISCOVER THE BEST TUSCAN WINES IN WHOLESALE

Banfi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG: An authentic oenological masterpiece from the Banfi Winery, known for its richness and elegance. Its brilliant ruby red color with garnet shades is captivating to the eye, while the aromatic bouquet offers a sweet and fruity olfactory experience. Clear hints of fresh red fruit intertwine harmoniously with complex notes of licorice and pipe tobacco.

The structure of this Tuscan wine is imposing, and the palate is enveloped in a balance of well-integrated tannins with pleasant acidity. The Banfi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG promises remarkable aging potential and notable persistence.

This wine finds its highest expression when paired with rich and savory dishes, aged cheeses, and red meats like the Florentine steak, but it's also ideal for moments of contemplation and meditation.

Campo ai Sassi Rosso di Montalcino: It embodies the typical characteristics of Sangiovese cultivated in this area, presenting a young and vibrant version. The deep soils in which these vines grow contribute to creating fragrant and elegant wines with a light and delicate tannic structure.

In the glass, this extraordinary Tuscan red wine reveals a magnificent bright ruby color. On the nose, fruity and floral notes stand out, including currants, Morello cherries, and wild violets, accompanied by subtle toasty nuances.

On the palate, it is fresh, soft, and balanced; the tannic structure is compact and delicate. The persistence is pleasantly prolonged and remains fruity. An authentic masterpiece from the Frescobaldi Winery that should not be missing from the shelves of an Italian wine cellar.

Marchesi Antinori Pian delle Vigne Rosso di Montalcino DOC: Montalcino is a hill with magical atmosphere, an enchanted place that gives life to some of the most celebrated Tuscan wines in the world. If Brunello, noble and sumptuous, is reserved for special occasions, an excellent Rosso di Montalcino, such as Antinori's Pian delle Vigne, emerges as a prestigious alternative.

This Tuscan wine is elegant and pleasant, without excessive intensity. It is easy to sip but retains the charm derived from a unique territory and winemaking tradition in the world.

When poured into the glass, the Pian delle Vigne Rosso di Montalcino displays a lively ruby-red color, not overly dense, in line with the characteristics of the region and the grape variety. On the nose, clear fruity notes are recognizable, enriched by slightly spicy nuances, adding complexity. In the mouth, it presents a well-defined structure, supported by balanced alcohol content and noble and elegant tannins.

Banfi La Pettegola Vermentino di Toscana IGT: From the renowned Tuscan Banfi Winery, this is an excellent Tuscan white wine that embodies all the distinctive characteristics of the Maremma territory. Crafted exclusively from Vermentino grapes, this white Tuscan wine represents a high-quality product that has received numerous accolades, including the esteemed judgment of the famous American critic and journalist, James Suckling.

La Pettegola Vermentino is a sincere expression of this grape variety, with remarkable aging potential. It is perfect for enjoying while young but reveals even more interesting nuances if left to rest in the cellar for 2 or 3 years. A true tribute to the Maremma territory and the winemaking mastery of Banfi.

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