Chianti Classico

To confuse the matter Chianti Classico DOCG is surrounded by an array of Chianti DOCG’s.

You’ll see the famous ‘Gallo Nero’ Black Rooster on all bottles of Chianti Classico.

The history of Chianti Classico is explored on the Consozio’s site.

Chianti Classico has around 7,000Ha (2020) of vineyards covering 11 Unità Geografiche Aggiuntive, UGAs. These UGA will soon begin appearing on wine labels of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, hopefully, they’ll appear on bottles of Chianti Classico shortly thereafter.

The 11 UGAs are listed below. Each is linked to the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico site that has an incredible visual resource exploring each UGA:

• SAN CASCIANO
• GREVE
• MONTEFIORALLE
• LAMOLE
• PANZANO
• SAN DONATO IN POGGIO
• RADDA
• CASTELLINA
• GAIOLE
• CASTELNUOVO BERARDENGA
• VAGLIAGLI

The UGA are broken down into sub-units recognising geographical and geological difference within each UGA.

The Chianti Classico DOCG requires a 80-100% Sangiovese and 0-20% other varieties in the blend including international varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione was established in 2014 with the aim, perhaps yet to be fully realised, of establishing a higher classification.

The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 90-100% Sangiovese and 0-10% native varieties only in the blend.

The grapes that may contribute to the blend must be recorded in the national register of vine varieties of MIPAAF authorized by the Region of Tuscany, starting from native varieties, such as Canaiolo Nero, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Fogliatonda, Malvasia Nera, Mammolo, Pugnitello, and also major international varieties, such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah.

It was only in 1996 that wines made with 100% Sangiovese were permitted and Chianti Classico was recognised as independant DOCG from Chianti with its own production regulations.

In 2005 white grapes were banned from use in Chianti Classico.