Tasting Notes

Chianti is a red wine Italian blend dating back to the 14th century. It is dominated by the Sangiovese grape which is indigenous to Italy and widely grown in Tuscany. Sangiovese accounts for 75-100% of the blend. Other approved grape varieties that can be included are Colorino to add colour depth to the wine, Canaiolo to improve the blend, Merlot to soften the tannins and Cabernet Sauvignon. Chianti is built on the Sangiovese grape, and the tasting profile reflects everything that grape does best: bright acidity, savory aromatics, and a red fruit backbone wrapped in a distinctly Tuscan herbal character.

🎯 Overall Character - Chianti is best described as a bright ruby red wine with red fruity notes that is spicy, tart, herbal and deeply savoury. It is literally a taste of Tuscany. It’s high acidity and medium body makes it a great pairing partner with many dishes.

🍒 On the Nose (Aromatics) - Chianti wine is a vivid mix of fruit, herbs, and savory notes, Red fruits dominate such as sour cherry, dark cherry and red plum. The fruit aromas are complemented with dried herbs that represent the Tuscan region; Oregano, thyme and other Italian spices. Notes of balsamic vinegar, smoke, tobacco and game are also present.

🍷 On the Palate - Chianti is a dry red wine typically with medium body, high in acidity, with firm/coarse tannins and alcohol level of 12-13.5%. Primary flavours include dark cherry, wild raspberry, red plum, dried oregano, earth, Italian herbs and balsamic notes in more complex bottlings. Secondary flavours are tobacco, smoke, expresso, wild raspberry and subtle spice.

🕰️ Aging Profile - Chianti wine can be aged for varying lengths depending on its type and vintage however most Chianti wines should be consumed within 3-5 years of bottling. Chianti Reserva wines are oak aged for a minimum of 2 years and can age 10-15 years. With age, the red fruit flavours soften and Chianti develops more tobacco, earth and leather notes.