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Tuscany, or Toscana, is perhaps the most iconic region of Italy. With magnificent Florence as its capital, it is a region of medieval hill towns, like Siena, Lucca and San Gimignano, and rolling sunburned hills. Even with all the exquisite art and culture of Tuscany, one of its greatest treasures can be found growing on those hillsides, in vineyards fringed by the graceful rows of cypress trees, gently swaying in the Tuscan breeze. As one of the world’s premier wine-growing regions, Tuscany’s vineyards are particularly renowned for dry red wines produced from the Sangiovese variety of grapes. These include the famous Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and, of course, Chianti wines. While Sangiovese accounts for 85% of all red wine produced in Tuscany, Tuscan white wines are primarily made from the Trebbiano, or Ugni Blanc, variety. Its vineyards are not only highly favoured by tourists on Tuscan wine tours from Florence, but also by connoisseurs and the wine establishment. Over 40 of the best Tuscan wines are recognised with the DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) or exclusive DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) labels. By highlighting five of the best of the region’s red wines to taste, we’ll show you that Tuscany has much more variety to offer than Chianti. The sheer variety and unmatched quality of these wines more than justify joining Tuscan wine tours from Florence whilst visiting that beautiful city. 5 red wines to taste on Tuscan wine tours from Florence Chianti Why not begin our small tour with a true classic? With its dry, earthy notes and a hint of wild berry aroma, this Sangiovese-based red is instantly recognisable on the palate. Its versatility for being paired with a wide range of dishes has made Chianti extremely popular with foodies the world over. Chianti Classico DOCG There are Chiantis and Chiantis. The Classico DOCG is firmly the latter. Wines labelled as Chianti can be produced across Tuscany. However, its namesake region is in fact very small, nestled around the villages of Gaiole, Castellina and Radda. Only Chianti Classico is still produced in this historic heartland, therefore, it appeals to the wine purist. Traditionalists should seek out producers who still bottle this classic wine in the historic fiasco - a short bottle encased in a straw basket. Rossa di Montalcino This classic Tuscan wine originates from the vineyards around the quaint hill town of Montalcino, a stone’s throw from beautiful Siena and easily accessible on Tuscan wine tours from Florence. Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, it is the younger sibling of the mighty Brunello di Montalcino. Its youth accounts for its fresher tones of forest fruits with hints of vanilla, making it an ideal pairing for light tomato-based pasta dishes. Brunello di Montalcino Like the Chianti Classico, the Brunello’s quality and centuries of winemaking tradition has seen it awarded with the prestigious DOCG status. Brunello is a robust red, with strong hints and aromas of leather but with the sharp afternotes of balsamico. Its unique taste originally led to it being assumed to be a separate grape variety, although we now know it is 100% Sangiovese. Bolgheri DOC Wines of the Bolgheri appellation are growing in reputation. Unlike the other wines on our list, Bolgheri is not always made with Sangiovese grapes, but often a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot with either a Sangiovese, Syrah or Petit Verdot. With their coastal locations, Bolgheri vineyards produce a wine that has distinct coastal elements and the effect of a Bordeaux, but from a warmer, drier climate. A favourite is Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri, the only wine from a single estate to have its own DOC. Ready to taste? Is your palate itching to taste some of these wonderful wines? Discovering them along with the full variety of what the region has to offer is simple on Tuscan wine tours from Florence. They allow you to sample the best of the best from all corners of Tuscany without the stress of having to make the difficult arrangements to get to some of these remote locations. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best Tuscan wine tours from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, 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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