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The regions of Italy are varied and eclectic, especially when it comes to wines, but perhaps there is no region whose varieties are as revered as Tuscany. Home to the famous Chianti, its wines are synonymous for pairing with rich, decadent food and for bringing a freshness to the palate. A wine tasting in Chianti is a must for any traveller to the region with even a passing interest in vino, and something that everyone should aim to experience at least once. However, to get the most out of this type of trip it’s important to know a little bit about the process. Below are some key things to look out for and a few ‘what to do’s’ and ‘what not to do’s’. Things You Should Do One of the key things that you should do in order to make a wine tasting in Chianti a special experience is to cleanse your palate before each taste. You’ll find that water is provided and it’s a fool-proof way to ensure each taste is as fresh as the first. For first timers it can be hard to know whether spitting is the done thing, or whether that’s just how it’s done on television and in magazines! It is completely up to you, but if there are a lot of wineries on your tour, or a lot more glasses than you’re used to, then use of the spittoon can be a very smart decision. Although it might feel a bit silly if you’re new to this, having a big sniff of the wine before your first taste can really elevate your experience. You’d be surprised just how much flavour is contained in the aroma of the liquid. It sounds like a basic thing to say, but on a wine tasting in Chianti it is crucial to go in with an open mind, ready to try things you might not expect to like. Mistakes to Avoid There are some basic things that many of us do when we drink wine, but that can actually have a detrimental impact on our ability to get the most from its taste. The first of these, and something that could end up being a bit of a ‘faux pas’ at a wine tasting in Chianti, is to hold the glass by the bowl rather than the stem. This can warm up the wine and subtly alter its flavour profile. There’s nothing wrong with wearing perfume, aftershave or cologne but, if possible, these things should not be worn to the winery. As mentioned in the Things You Should Do section above, aroma plays a crucial role in the flavour experience, and adding your own is definitely something to avoid. Perhaps the most important thing to watch out for on a wine tasting in Chianti is the temptation to drink more wine than you usually would. It can be extremely tempting to drink glass after glass, such are the delectable tastes on offer, but becoming too drunk too quickly can ruin an otherwise great tasting. You’ll be able to enjoy every glass you drink as long as you take your time and don’t start too overeager. Take Up the Stance One final tip to ensure that you enjoy a wine tasting in Chianti like a true Italian is to take up the classic pose: the hand not holding the glass should be on your hip! With these key do’s and don’ts at the ready, it’s time to begin your tour of the amazing wines of this region. It’s always a good idea to contact a reputable tour operator ahead of travelling as they can help arrange the best tastings and can share their local knowledge and insight which can help make your trip one to remember. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable day trips from Florence including Vintage Vespa tours, cooking classes, andwine tasting in Chianti excursions. Wherever and whatever you want to explore Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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