A Toast to the Rich Wine and Food Traditions of Chianti
Chianti evokes the essence of Italy, encompassing both a geographic region and a celebrated wine legacy. Nestled in the heart of central Italy, Chianti refers to a picturesque area of rolling hills where vineyards flourish under the Tuscan sun. Chianti is also a classic Italian red wine crafted from the revered Sangiovese grape, famous throughout the world.
Distinguishing Elegance: Chianti and Chianti Classico
The Chianti wine suffered from a poor reputation in the 20th century, primarily due to mass production that prioritized quantity over quality. Inexpensive bottles with cork stoppers and a wine style often too tannic damaged Chianti's image. However, in recent decades, thanks to a growing commitment to quality, Chianti has reclaimed its position as a wine of excellence.
When talking about Chianti, a distinction must be made between Chianti and Chianti Classico.
- Territorial Origin: Chianti wine is produced from a broad area of Tuscany that encompasses land in the provinces of Florence and Siena. Chianti Classico wine is produced in a specific historic territory— first designated in 1716 by Cosimo III, the Grand Duke of Tuscany— located in the heart of the Chianti zone. Chianti and Chianti Classico are two different DOCGs created for their protection.
- Quality Standards: The grape composition for Chianti can vary, but it includes Sangiovese as the primary grape variety, along with other permitted red grape varieties such as Canaiolo and Colorino. Notably, it can also include a percentage of white grape varieties such as Trebbiano. Chianti Classico protocol specifies the presence of Sangiovese in a percentage ranging from a minimum of 80% to achieving "purity." In addition to Sangiovese, it can include a maximum of 20% of other authorized red grape varieties only.
- Identification: The best method to distinguish a Chianti Classico wine from a Chianti wine is the presence of a Black Rooster emblem on the label or neck of the bottle.
Did you know that…?
Legend has it that the black rooster emblem to identify the Chianti Classico wines originated from a historic rivalry between Florence and Siena. The two cities agreed to settle their border dispute through a horse race, and the crowing of a rooster at dawn was to signal the starting point. The cunning Florentines used a black rooster kept on a diet to crow earlier, securing a larger territory for Chianti.
The Definition of "Maturing Well": Chianti Classico Riserva
Chianti Classico Riserva follows the same regulations as Chianti Classico including the geographical areas where the grapes can be grown. What sets Chianti Classico Riserva apart from the Chianti Classico is its extended maturation, a process that unfolds over 24 months, including at least three months in the bottle. This prolonged aging, often in oak barrels, imparts a depth and complexity that distinguishes the Riserva from its counterparts. The result is a wine that captivates the senses with a nuanced palette of flavors and embodies the rich heritage of the region.
Sipping Through Centuries: the Blood of Jove
The history of Chianti is as rich and nuanced as its wines. Dating back to the Middle Ages, the Chianti region was initially recognized for its superb Sangiovese grapes. The name "Chianti" is believed to have originated from the Etruscan word "Clante," referring to the people who inhabited the area. However, it was in the 18th century that Chianti began its ascent to prominence when Baron Bettino Ricasoli, a key figure in the region's winemaking, formulated the "Chianti recipe." His blend included Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Malvasia, which is a combination no longer allowed for Chianti Classico.
The Sangiovese grape, the star of Chianti, paints a complex and expressive palette. Its name, translated as the "blood of Jove" (Sangius Jovis), hints at the divine nature attributed to this varietal. The grape thrives in the region's varied soils, expressing itself differently based on altitude and microclimates. Chianti's Sangiovese wines dance on the palate with notes of red cherries, plums, and a characteristic earthiness, as a result of the oaked maturation that lasts up to 7-24 months in the case of Chianti Classico.
Did you know…?
The iconic bottle-in-basket, fiasco, probably dates to the 14th or 15th century, when the basket wrapping added extra protection during shipping.
Terroir reflections on Tuscan Food Traditions
The joy of Chianti extends beyond the glass, embracing the art of food and wine pairing. Traditional Tuscan cuisine harmonizes seamlessly with the region's wines. Below are some delightful pairings:
The iconic Fiorentina steak, with its minimalist seasoning of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, encounters a perfect symphony with a robust Chianti Classico Riserva. This wine, structured and bold, harmonizes exquisitely with the steak's robust flavors. The tannins in the Chianti cut through the richness of the meat, enhancing each savory bite. This pairing, born from the heart of Tuscany, celebrates the marriage of two classics.
Chianti's medium-bodied elegance becomes a culinary dance partner for Pappa al Pomodoro, a robust Tuscan bread and tomato soup. The wine's acidity harmonizes with the tomatoes' sweetness. The marriage of flavors enhances the heartiness of the soup, while the Chianti's nuanced notes of red cherries and dried herbs add a layer of complexity.
The classic pairing of Chianti and aged Pecorino cheese is a Tuscan symphony for the senses. Chianti's robust tannins cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend. The Pecorino, made from sheep's milk, adds a savory complexity with its bold, salty notes, enhancing the wine's fruitiness. Together, they create a delightful union where each element accentuates the other, transforming a simple cheese platter into a wonderful experience of flavors and textures.
The Perfect Holiday Aperitivo
Looking for something different and sophisticated to surprise your guests this Christmas? A great aperitivo to try is the Chianti Cobbler, a refreshing blend of Chianti, orange liqueur, and fresh fruit, which showcases the wine's versatility beyond traditional pairings. In fact, Chianti has also found its way into modern mixology, redefining classic cocktails. Here is the recipe to light up your holiday season!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Chianti wine
- 1 oz orange liqueur (like triple sec)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Fresh fruit slices (orange, lemon, berries) for garnish
- Ice cube
Instructions:
- Fill a glass (typically a large wine glass or a cobbler shaker) with ice cubes.
- Pour Chianti wine over the ice.
- Add the orange liqueur and simple syrup.
- Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
- Garnish with fresh fruit slices.
- Optionally, you can garnish the rim of the glass with sugar for added sweetness.
Adjust the ingredients to your taste preferences and enjoy your Chianti Cobbler!
In conclusion, Chianti's allure lies in its ability to bridge the past and the present, marrying tradition with innovation. Each sip transports one through centuries of winemaking expertise and the pursuit of perfection.