All about Chianti

Appearance

  • Color: Ruby red that ranges from bright and vibrant in youngers wines or brick red hues in aged wines.
  • Opacity: Generally medium opacity, light typically passes through the wine.

Aroma

  • Primary Aromas: Bright red fruits such as cherry, strawberry, and plum, along with floral notes like violet.
  • Secondary Aromas: Hints of dried herbs, anise, and sometimes a subtle earthiness or minerality.
  • Tertiary Aromas: Leather, tobacco, dried leaves, and a hint of balsamic or spice like clove and cinnamon.

Flavor Profile

  • Fruit Flavors: Red fruit flavors such as tart cherry, raspberry, and plum.
  • Other Flavors: Hints of dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, tomato leaf, and a slight earthiness. With age, Chianti can develop more complex flavors like leather, dried fig, and tea leaves.
  • Oak Influence: Depending on the winemaker’s approach, Chianti may have oak influences. This can impart flavors of vanilla, cedar, smoke, or a touch of spice.

Structure

  • Body : Medium Body offering a balanced mouthfeel that is neither too light nor too heavy.
  • Tannins: Medium to high tannins provide structure and a slightly astringent, drying sensation on the palate.
  • Acidity: Known for its high acidity
  • Alcohol: Ranging from 12% to 14.5%.

Pairings for Chianti

Tomato Based Dishes
Tomato Based Dishes

Tomato-Based Dishes

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Grilled Meats
Grilled Meats

Grilled Meats

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Aged Cheeses
Aged Cheeses

Aged Cheeses

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