Central Italy Flashcards
Describe the climate of Central Italy
Hot, with moderating influence from the Apennines and coastal breezes on either side.
Tuscany can be divided into what three main areas?
mountainous Chianti region in the North, the hills and valleys in the south, and the flat coastal plain.
What are the characteristics of Sangiovese?
late to ripen, high acid and tannin, red fruit and dried herbs, can develop meaty, gamey aromas with age.
Into how many zones is Chianti divided?
Seven, including Chianti Rufina and Chianti Colli Senesi. Chianti Classico is not a subzone. Its grapes are grown at a higher altitude, and the wines must be aged for 12 months (24 for Riserva).
What are the most well-known appellations of Southern Tuscany?
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
How long must Brunello di Montalcino be aged?
Five years, 2 in oak. Rosso di Montalcino DOC has a lower age requirement (as does Rosso di Montepulciano DOC)
What grape varieties and appellations are associated with Super Tuscans?
Bordeaux-style blends and international varietals such as Syrah, sometimes in combination with local varieties like Sangiovese.
Toscana IGT, Bolgheri DOC, Maremma Toscana DOC
What red and white wines are associated to Umbria?
Orvieto DOC - a blend of Grechetto, Trebbiano and others; light bodied, medium-high acidity, ripe grapefruit and peaches.
Sangrantino di Montefalco DOCG - made from thick-skinned Sangrantino grape
What white wine is associated to Lazio?
Frascati DOC - Malvasia and Trebbiano, fresh, unoaked, medium body, medium-high acidity, citrus and orange blossom
What grape is Marche best known for?
Verdicchio - high acid, lemon, green apple, fennel and almond
The most famous appellation is Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC.
Conero DOCG is made from a blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese
What wine is Abruzzo most known for?
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC - high tannin, medium acid, black plums and cherries
