On Chianti Classico and Tuscan Wines

Choosing a Chianti Classico is not an easy task. The region is quite big and, unlike Burgundy for example, no differentiation is made by village or individual vineyard. In Chianti Classico the main characteristics contributing to style and quality are, apart from the winemaker, altitude and soil. To navigate this, it helps to familiarize yourself with the most important villages — Panzano, Gaiole, and Castellina each have their own distinct character. Ultimately, the key to selecting a good Chianti is to go out there and try. Find your favorite village and winemaker. It is not an easy task and requires quite some effort, but that is part of the pleasure. Price can also serve as a useful indication, as Chianti Classico is available in every price range.

What I personally love about Tuscan wines is the wide variety in styles — it is possible to find a wine for any occasion. There are light and fruity wines that match perfectly with pasta, but at the same time there are also powerful and complex wines that go beautifully with meat. Although we usually tend to associate Tuscany with red wines, there are a number of white wines absolutely suited to be enjoyed in summer on a terrace.

The biggest challenge, however, is finding a good wine that is also affordable. The most famous Brunello and Montepulciano wines are a guarantee for good quality, but also for a high price. This also means that lower quality wines take advantage of the image of the better ones and are often overpriced.

My personal favorites are the rustic, old-styled Tuscan wines. These wines are made for ageing and can usually not be drunk in the first five years. They are characterized by a crisp acidity and complex aromas of ripe fruits and wood. The longer these wines age, the more their components integrate — and every year you open a new bottle, it will be a whole new experience.