When many people think of red wine, they probably think of Tuscany.
If you like wine
“I often hear about Tuscan wine, but what kind of wine is it?”
“I wonder what kind of grape varieties are used?”
I'm also curious about the details. This time, I would like to introduce some recommended wines while keeping the basic information on Tuscan red wines limited.
We will be introducing a wide range of wines, from affordable to luxury, so if you are interested in Tuscan wine, please use this as a reference when choosing wine.
Characteristics of Tuscan red wine
Tuscany, located in central Italy, is one of Europe's most famous wine regions.
Sangiovese is Tuscany's signature grape variety.
There are many wines made in Tuscany, but among them
・Italy's most famous red wine "Chianti"
・"Brunello di Montalcino", said to be one of Italy's three major alcoholic beverages
・“Sassicaia” captivates wine lovers as a super tuscan
is a wine that is famous all over the world and represents Tuscany.
Sangiovese, a grape variety representative of Tuscany
Sangiovese is a grape variety representative of Tuscany.
Sangiovese is generally
・Strong acidity
・Dark cherry scent
・Firm tannins
・Savory character
It has the following characteristics.
85% of the grapes grown for red wine in Tuscany are Sangiovese.
For example, Chianti, which I introduced earlier, is made from over 70% Sangiovese, and Brunello di Montalcino is made from 100% Brunello (Sangiovese Grosso), a subspecies of Sangiovese.
The best years for Tuscan red wine: 2015 and 2016
The recent successful years for Tuscan red wine are said to be 2015 and 2016.
All Tuscan wines from these two years received high scores of over 95 out of 100 from Wine Spectator magazine.
By the way, Wine Specter is an American wine magazine founded in 1976. Wine Spectator is such a big player in the wine industry that wine prices around the world are influenced by the scores it gives.
When you think of Tuscany, you think of Chianti.
The most typical red wine from Tuscany is Chianti, which is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes.
Characterized by cherry, flavorful notes, and herbs and spices. She has firm acidity and tannins.
Difference between "Chianti" and "Chianti Classico"
Chianti is divided into two DOCs: Chianti and Chianti Classico.
Classico means classic in Japanese. Chianti Classico is a red wine produced in a historic area of Chianti that has been producing Chianti wine for a long time.
Chianti Classico is generally said to be of higher quality than Chianti.
The revolutionary child of Italian wine! ? What is Super Tuscan “Sassicaia”?
``Sassicaia'' is the first wine released as Super Tuscan.
Super Tuscan is a style of red wine that was born in Tuscany, Italy in the early 1970s. It exploded in popularity in the 1980s and was given the name "Super Tuscan."
A revolutionary in Italian wine, born from the belief that ``we simply want to make the best wine without being bound by strict wine regulations.''
Sassicaia was released in 1971 and is called the "original Super Tuscan." In addition to traditional Italian grapes, we have created a Bordeaux-style blend using international varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It has received high praise all over the world.
4 recommended Tuscan red wines
Now that we have reviewed the basic information about Tuscan wine, we will introduce some recommended Tuscan red wines.
① “Brunello di Montalcino”, one of Italy’s three major alcoholic beverages
``Brunello di Montalcino'' is said to be one of Italy's three major alcoholic beverages, along with Barolo and Barbaresco. Complex aromas of ripe black fruit and licorice. It pairs well with dishes such as roasted beef or lamb.
② Excellent cost performance! “Chianti Classico” from the prestigious Antinori
This is a wonderful wine that will give you a chance to enjoy Antinori, with a high rating of 91 Parker points in this price range.
Sangiovese's characteristic violet scent with aromas of tobacco and mint. The fruit flavors of black fruits fill the mouth, with lively tannins and acidity creating a long finish.
③A slightly special Chianti “Chianti Superiore”
Santa Cristina is made by the prestigious Italian company Antinori. It is a wine that has been loved for many years in Italy, so much so that it is said that there is no one who does not know its name.
Velvety smooth texture and tannins. It is elegant and has thick layers, and is characterized by a more profound style compared to the standard line Cristina Rosso.
④Affordable “Chianti” when you want to drink casually
Clear ruby color. You can feel the spicy nuances of black pepper and fruit aromas of strawberries and raspberries. It has a lively acidity and a straight body.
⑤Super Tuscan “Sassicaia” recommended for wine lovers
If you love wine, you should try the Super Tuscan "Sassicaia" at least once. Although it is an expensive wine, it is a masterpiece filled with the producer's thoughts.
Enjoy Tuscan red wine "Sangiovese" and "Super Tuscan"
Tuscany's signature red wine is made from the local variety Sangiovese.
・Italy's most famous red wine "Chianti"
・"Brunello di Montalcino", said to be one of Italy's three major alcoholic beverages
and using international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
・Super Tuscan, the revolutionary child of Italian wine
is. Among the Super Tuscans, ``Sassicaia'' has gained tremendous support from wine lovers.
If you want a light drink, try the inexpensive Chianti, or if you want to enjoy a leisurely glass of wine on the weekend, try the Chianti Classico. For special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays, try ``Brunello di Montalcino'' or ``Sassicaia.'' Please take your time and enjoy Tuscan red wine according to the occasion.
