Central and Southern Italy Flashcards
When was the first vintage of Sassicaia and who created it?
Marquis Mario Rocchetta, who released the first commercial vintage of Sassicaia in 1968.
Who is Piero Antinori and what is his wine?
Nephew of Marquis Mario Rocchetta, his wine is Tignanello
How much wine does Tuscany produce annually and how much is at DOC/DOCG level?
3 MIllion Hectoliters, 45%
Climate of Tuscany
Although Tuscany as a whole enjoys a dry, maritime-influenced climate, winters can be harsh and summers can be long and hot.
Climate and Location of Montalcino
Arid, Southern Province of Siena
Climate and Location of Montepulciano
Further inland, more continental
Main red grape of Tuscany
Sangiovese
Describe Sangiovese
Typically, Sangiovese wines are light in color, naturally high in acidity, firmly tannic, and medium- to full-bodied. Sour cherry notes and herbal undertones are common.
Sangiovese DOCGs in Tuscany
Chianti Chianti Classico Carmignano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Morellino di Scansano Montecucco Sangiovese Brunello di Montalcino (100% Sangiovese)
8 Subzones of Chianti
Rufina (Firenze) Colli Fiorentini (Firenze) Montespertoli (Firenze) Montalbano (Prato, Pistoia, Firenze) Colli Senesi (Siena) Colli Aretini (Arezzo) Colline Pisane (Pisa) Classico
Blending Requirements Chianti
70-100% Sangiovese
Maximum 30% combined other grapes authorized for Toscana
Maximum 10% white grapes
Maximum 15% combined Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc
Blending Requirements Chianti Classico
80-100% Sangiovese
Maximum 20% other red grapes authorized by Siena and Firenze (i.e. Colorino, Canaiolo Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)
As of the 2006 vintage, Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia Bianco are no longer allowed
Two native grapes other than Sangiovese important in Tuscan wine production
Canaiolo and Colorino
White grape gaining traction in Maremma
Vermentino
Year Chianti was elevated to DOCG
1984
Firm dominating Rufina
Frescobaldi
Only two producers in Pomino DOC within Rufina
Frescobaldi, Fattoria Selvapiana
What is Pomino DOC?
Within Rufina it allows a higher percentage of international varietals as well as a number of varietal bottling
Who is credited with creating the Chianti Recipe and when?
Baron Bettino Ricasoli
When was the general recipe for Chianti updated?
1996
Which subzone of Chianti requires a minimum of 75% Sangiovese?
Colli Senesi
Which two white grapes are allowed in Chianti?
Trebbiano Toscana and Malvasia
What is governo?
refermentation with the juice of dried grapes, to strengthen the wine and initiate malolactic fermentation, must be put on label, most quality minded producers avoid
When may Chianti normale be release?
March 1st of year following harvest