Tuscany
Tuscany is the oldest wine region in Italy, with a long history dating back over 2700 years. The region is on the Western coast of Italy, stretching from the coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea all the way to the Apennine mountains, with the majority of the region being quite hilly.
Contributing to around 6% of Italy's total wine output, Tuscany is the third most planted region, but only the eight biggest producer. Much of this can be attributed to the hilly terroir and poor soils leading to lower yields, but generally higher quality wines. The region produces far more red than white wine, and is responsible for two of the most famous Italian red wines, Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
Chianti was first classified in 1716, and the region of Tuscany now has 29 DOC and 7 DOCG classifications. In the 1970s 'Super Tuscan' wines emerged of supreme quality, commanding very high prices. Although they were initially produced outside the DOC or DOCG zones, most of the regions have since been classified, though some producers still opt to use the simpler and less restrictive IGT labelling.
The famous red wine Chianti is based on the the Sangiovese variety, though is most commonly blended with Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon. The blending of multiple grapes is common, even Bordeaux blends can be found. White wines produced include Vermentino, Vernaccia, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay.
Contributing to around 6% of Italy's total wine output, Tuscany is the third most planted region, but only the eight biggest producer. Much of this can be attributed to the hilly terroir and poor soils leading to lower yields, but generally higher quality wines. The region produces far more red than white wine, and is responsible for two of the most famous Italian red wines, Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
Chianti was first classified in 1716, and the region of Tuscany now has 29 DOC and 7 DOCG classifications. In the 1970s 'Super Tuscan' wines emerged of supreme quality, commanding very high prices. Although they were initially produced outside the DOC or DOCG zones, most of the regions have since been classified, though some producers still opt to use the simpler and less restrictive IGT labelling.
The famous red wine Chianti is based on the the Sangiovese variety, though is most commonly blended with Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon. The blending of multiple grapes is common, even Bordeaux blends can be found. White wines produced include Vermentino, Vernaccia, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay.
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A superb Sangiovese blend with indigenous grape varieties. Intensely perfumed with bright, lively notes of flowers, red and black fruits. Full and harmonious with mouth-filling primary fruit flavours and seamless tannins. Exclusively imported by United Cellars & great to cellar or ... Learn MoreTENUTA DI LILLIANO CHIANTI CLASSICO DOCG 2015NZ$29.99 Per itemOut of stock -
A pure & classic expression from the family owned estates in the south-west of Montalcino, Tuscany. Bright, wild cherry & plum aromas burst from the glass with hints of vanilla. Lithe & vibrant on the palate, showing off notes of stewed strawberry, bright ... Learn MoreSESTA DI SOPRA ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2014NZ$39.99 Per itemOut of stock -
100% Sangiovese grapes, traditionally & organically produced from 15 year old vines. It greets the palate like velvet, then unleashes a wild side: black cherry, spices, a bloody note, and finally a gutsy finish that leaves something to ponder long after it’s ... Learn MoreSESTI ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2015NZ$41.99 Per item -
Ginarte is the essence of life’s pleasures, an exploration of all things beautiful- A premium gin made with juniper berries picked only in select areas of the Apennines of Tuscany & 13 native botanicals. Calamint, safflower, mignonette, rubia & indigo are rare ... Learn MoreGINARTE DRY GIN 700MLNZ$74.99 Per item -
A carefully selected Super Tuscan from a small, family owned estate in the heart of Chianti, bearing all the hallmarks of a world class wine. Displays a restrained deep black cherry nose with hints of damson, liquorice, truffles and spice. ... Learn MoreTENUTA DI RISECCOLI SAECULUM SUPER TUSCAN 2011NZ$107.99 Per item
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