It's time to up the Chi-anti
The first friday of September celebrates National Chianti Day - this year it is Friday 2nd September. These beautiful Sangiovese-led wines are some of the most recognized red wines in the world, with up to 75 million litres produced every year – more than any other region in Italy. To celebrate, here are some facts about the region and some delicious wines to enjoy.
Grand Duke Cosimo Medici III, the longest-reigning leader in Tuscany history, established the original Chianti area in 1716. During the latter part of the 19th Century, Barone Ricasoli of Castello di Brolio established the blend of grapes used in the modern Chianti region, most notably Sangiovese. Bottles produced in the original Chianti Classico region still have the iconic black rooster (gallo nero) that was said to have crowed in favour of Florence in one of the many myths that surround the region.
As well as the original Chianti Classico, there are 7 sub-regions in Chianti; Chianti Rufina, Chianti Colli Aretini, Chianti Colli Fiorentini, Chianti Colli Senesi, Chianti Colline Pisane, Chianti Montalbano and Chianti Montespertoli. Wines made in these areas may label their wines with the subregion or simply as Chianti, but only those produced in the original Chianti area may use the Classico designation and the Black Rooster emblem on their bottles.
Now enough of the facts. Here are 3 wines we stock to help you celebrate Chianti Day.
Salcheto, Chianti Biskero, 2020, 75cl £14.95 or 150cl £31.95
The wider region of Chianti is over 100 miles, from north to south, and is responsible for the majority of the wine produced for mass consumption. Although some of it is produced as cheaply as possible to fill supermarket shelves, there are also some great wines to be found in this sector. Salchetto are a leader in the region in terms of sustainability and minimizing their impact on the environment. Their organic Chianti is an easy drinking wine composed of Sangiovese (85%), Canaiolo, Mammolo and Merlot. It has plenty of the classic Sangiovese flavours, including cherry and plum with hints of herbs and earthy notes. This is an excellent gateway into the region and what is more we have it both in standard and magnum bottles!
Selvapiana, Chianti Rufina, 2020, 75cl £19.95
Chianti Rufina is found in the hills north-east of Florence, nestled in a windswept valley at a higher altitude than the rest of the Chianti region. The cooler temperatures in this sub-region produce a lighter, fresher and more perfumed style of wine, ideal for lovers of Pinot Noir. Selvapiana are widely regarded as the top producer in the region and their standard Chianti Rufina has aromatics of ripe blackberry, red cherry and a touch of spice on the nose. On the palate, it is ripe and juicy but still fine and elegant in the Selvapiana style, with a tight structure and lifted, floral finish with refreshing acidity. A classic expression of the Sangiovese grape grown in the north eastern part of Chianti.
Isole e Olena, Chianti Classico, 2019, 75cl 31.95
Isole e Olena are one of the most highly respected estates in Chianti, they were responsible for dramatically improving the quality of the Sangiovese vines as well as restoring traditional terracing in many vineyards. The drive to push up the standards at their estate inspired others in the region, and beyond, to do the same. Their Chianti Classico is crimson in colour with typical sour cherry and bramble notes on the nose. The palate has a supple, lithe character full of perfumed fruit and is given depth by its minerality and a long complex finish. The 2019 Chianti shows great balance and drinkability with a lively acidity and firm tannin structure. This is Lucy’s favorite estate in Tuscany!