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Sonhando Estwick, NYC Principal, on Tuscan Wines

Taste The Best Wines In Tuscany

The famous Tuscany region of Italy has more than 70 DOCG (Controlled designation of origin guaranteed) wines, the highest recognition that can be awarded to wine. Strict rules must be followed if the grapes are to qualify for this certification. For instance, wines labeled DOCG are analyzed and tasted before the bottling process by a group that is licensed by the government-licensed staff. Classic is another label that is reserved for a particular type of wine produced “traditionally.” With the Chianti Classico, the “traditional region” is defined by a degree dating back to July 10, 1932. The label Riserva is used only for wines aged at least for two years longer than is customary for a specific type of wine.

With such tradition and care given to the production of Tuscan wines, many are superb. Here are some Tuscan wines considered among the best:

Isole E Olena Chianti Classico 2014

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This wine comes from one of the top producers of Chianti Classico and is composed of 80% Sangiovese grapes, along with Caniolo and Syrah grapes. With a generous supply of berries, herbs, spice and menthol, Chianti Classico is aromatic and elegant.

Sassicaia 2015

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Composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, this is the first Super Tuscan wine. It led the way to an explosion of modern-style blended wines. This wine is now classified as DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia.

Castello di Nippozzano Montesodi 2012

This wine is 100% Sangiovese, and it is produced by the owners of six estates in Tuscany, the Frescobaldi family, who have been leaders in the Chianti region for over 700 years.

Fattoria Del Cerro Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva 2014

A complex wine for the price, Pattoria del Cerro is made with 90% Sangiovese. The remaining contents come from an obscure grape named Mammolo (meaning “violets”).

Castello di Ama L’Apparita 2013

This wine comes from the efforts of several families determined to restore Ama to its former prestige of top-tier wines. It is the first Tuscan wine made purely of Merlot.

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino 2011

A wine that is 100% Sangiovese, it is named after the man who discovered a unique clone of this grape called Brunello.

Montecucco Rosso

This wine is in southern Tuscany’s new wine region that has just been made DOCG. Montecucco Rosso is made from 5% of a local grape Ciliegiolo and 5% of Merlot with 90% Sangiovese. A fruity wine, Montecucco Rosso is easy to drink.

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