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Chianti Classico is a popular red wine produced in the Chianti area, located between Florence and Siena, in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. The wine was first defined in a decree issued by the Grand Duke of Tuscany in 1716 and the region was later delimited in 1932.
The rules for making Chianti Classico are strict. The wine must be produced with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes, the remaining can be native grapes like Canaiolo and Colorino, as well as other international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It cannot be released for sale until October 1 of the year following the vintage. Chianti Classico Riserva must be aged for at least 24 months, including at least three months of bottle aging.
Chianti Classico is known for its unmistakable logo with a black rooster (Gallo Nero) on each bottle, symbol of the Chianti Classico Wine Consortium, the institution that supervises the wine production in the region.
The wine is typically high in acidity with flavors of cherries, plums, and notes of spices, often with a hint of earthy tones. It usually has a medium to high tannin and it's often described as having a bitter edge on the finish. Chianti Classico pairs well with Italian cuisine, cheese, and meat dishes.
Chianti Classico, in recognition of its uniqueness and quality, was awarded the highest status, DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) in 1984, ahead of all other Italian wine types.