Toscana

Tuscany lies in central Italy, between the Apennines and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Vineyards range from the cooler, elevated hills of Chianti and Montalcino to the sunnier coastal areas of Bolgheri and the Maremma. The sea moderates heat, while altitude and cooler nights inland help preserve acidity. Summers are generally dry and sunny in this Mediterranean region, although site and vintage differences are considerable.

Its soils are as varied as its landscapes. Many classic red-wine areas feature galestro, a friable schist-like clay, and alberese, a stony, calcareous soil. Sand, clay, alluvial deposits and some volcanic influences also occur. Sangiovese is the principal black grape, underpinning Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Canaiolo Nero and other permitted varieties may supplement it. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Petit Verdot are important in modern Tuscan blends, particularly along the coast.

The region has numerous DOC and DOCG denominations. Chianti requires at least 70% Sangiovese, while Chianti Classico requires at least 80%. Brunello di Montalcino is made entirely from Sangiovese, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano contains a minimum of 70%. Toscana IGT allows grape choices and winemaking beyond stricter appellation rules. From the 1970s, many wines that became internationally known as “Super Tuscans” emerged under this flexibility; the term itself is not an official quality category.

Notable places include Radda, Gaiole, Castellina and Panzano in or near Chianti Classico, as well as Montalcino, Montepulciano, San Gimignano and Bolgheri. Sangiovese reds often combine cherry and sour-cherry fruit, violets, herbs, earth, firm acidity and tangible tannins. Brunello and the best Chianti Classico can age for many years, whereas simpler Chianti is usually most appealing earlier. Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a dry, lively white with citrus, apple, herbs and sometimes a gentle almond note. Vin Santo, traditionally made from dried grapes, is the region’s classic sweet wine and is often served with cantucci.