Most famously known for its straw-covered bottles served in small Italian restaurants, Chianti is one of the world's most famous red wines. Like an old friend, Chianti is open, inviting and approachable. Read on to learn choose a Chianti.
Instructions
1. Know where Chianti comes from--not the region, the grape. Chianti wine is anywhere between 75 to 100 percent Sangiovese grapes.
2. Learn about Chianti. There are several different types of Chianti. Those that are labeled "Chianti" are meant to be consumed while young and possess a medium to high-level acidity with slightly harsh tannins.
3. Discover Chianti Classico. In order to be labeled Classico, this wine must contain at least 80 percent Sangiovese grapes, spend seven months in oak barrels, have a minimum alcohol level of 12 percent, be slightly tannic, dry and must be a bright ruby red when young.
4. Understand Riserva. A bottled labeled Riserva must meet the same requirements as a Classico, but is aged for a minimum of 27 months and has a higher alcohol content. The result is a more complex and fuller-bodied wine with softer tannins than the Classico.
5. Look for Single Vineyard Chianti. Regarded as the highest quality Chianti, these wines are made from grapes grown at a single vineyard and are often casked in smaller oak barrels, which contribute to a more well-rounded wine.
Tags: made from, percent Sangiovese, , Sangiovese grapes