Summary
Chianti is a region in central Tuscany that is renowned for producing the iconic Chianti and Chianti Classico wines. It offers one of the best experiences for oenophiles eager to learn about Italy’s rich wine culture. However, wine tasting in Italy differs from the U.S.; reservations for tastings are required in advance, and the pace is generally slower. Consequently, you’re likely to visit only one or two vineyards each day.
How to Plan Where to Go
First, select a specific region or wine producer in Chianti that you enjoy. The Chianti region comprises seven distinct areas, each known for a unique type of Chianti wine. Among these, the Chianti Classico region situated between Florence and Siena is particularly famous.
Produced for over 2,000 years, Chianti Classico wine began gaining recognition from the 13th century onward. Popular wine towns to consider include Greve in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, Barberino Val d’Elsa, San Casciano in Val di Pesa, and Castelnuovo Berardenga.
Contact Your Favorite Wineries
Once you’ve identified some appealing wineries, the next step is to contact them to arrange a tour or tasting appointment. Many wineries even offer small bites, wine and cheese pairings, or full meals. It’s important to note that only larger wineries can accommodate walk-up tours and tastings; smaller family-run vineyards often require prior reservations.
Limit your visits to two or three wineries to absorb the experience fully. Things tend to be more leisurely in Italy compared to Napa Valley, so it’s more rewarding to savor the ambiance than to rush through the visits. Additionally, too many tours might become repetitive, given the limited diversity in wine fermentation processes.
Some of the favorite wineries to explore include Barone Ricasoli Brolio Castle, Casa Emma, and Castello di Verrazzano.
Tasting Wine at an Enoteca
Another great option is to visit an enoteca, a local wine shop in Italy, where you can sample, drink, or buy wines. One of the largest in the Chianti Classico area is Le Cantine di Greve in Chianti. Here, you can indulge in tastings that include wine, cheese, salami, grappa (grape-based brandy), and olive oil. Be sure to pace yourself; the venue houses a wine museum with over 140 wines to taste. Almost every small village in Italy features an enoteca, providing ample opportunity to explore local offerings.
Chianti Region Winery Escorted Tours
If you prefer visiting wineries without the hassle of drinking and driving, consider joining an escorted tour. Various full-day and half-day tours are available which include visits to villages and Chianti wineries with wine tastings. The region is rich with attractions and excellent dining options; where there’s good wine, there is often good food as well.
Accommodations
The Chianti region boasts a range of accommodations, including luxurious hotels, charming farmhouses, and cozy bed and breakfasts. For a unique experience, you might want to stay in a castle, such as Castello di Spaltenna in Gaiole. This four-star resort is located in a historic villa that offers breathtaking views of the lush countryside and vineyards.
