Tuscany: Chianti DOCG

The modern-day Chianti DOCG spreads much farther throughout central Toscana than its historical forebear, which, since 1996, has been an entirely separate entity under the name Chianti Classico DOCG.

Chianti DOCG encompasses seven sub-zones:

Chianti Colli Fiorentini DOCG a large area south and east of Firenze, with the longest winemaking tradition of the Chianti sub-zones. Torre a Cona make Cuculo’s Chianti Colli Fiorentini DOCG.
Chianti Rùfina DOCG the smallest, highest elevation and closest to the Appenines of the sub-zones, producing high quality wines showing freshness and light-to-medium body;
Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG the largest sub-zone, whose southerly latitude tends to produce the most full-bodied wines.
Chianti Colli Aretini DOCG the most easterly of the sub-zones, between the Chianti Classico appellation and the city of Arezzo.
Chianti Colline Pisane DOCG one of the smallest of the Chianti sub-zones, where temperatures are moderated by the proximity of the Tyrrenhian sea.
Chianti Montalbano DOCG the most north-westerly sub-zone, with some overlap with the Carmignano DOC appellation.
Chianti Montespertoli DOCG established in 1997, this youngest of the sub-zones was previously part of Chianti Colli Fiorentini DOCG.

Chianti has a requirement for a minimum 70% Sangiovese, with the balance made from other permitted grapes – typically these are Canaiolo, Colorino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. 10% of white grapes are permitted in the blend, though rarely used. Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG is an exception to this rule, requiring 75% Sangiovese; no white grapes are permitted.

The broader Chianti DOCG, and each of its sub-zones, are also permitted Superiore and Riserva wines.  Chianti Superiore wines must have a higher alcohol level than the basic Chianti DOCG, and come from vineyards with lower yields. Chianti Riserva wines must be aged for at least two years and have a higher alcohol level.