From Stacy Slinkard,
Your Guide to Wine.
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Definition: Chianti is a major DOCG that extends through most of Tuscany. It is also the name of Italy's most popular and widely available red wines, enter "Chianti" and "Chianti Classico."

Chianti is a dry red wine, made from the Sangiovese grape, that only improves when consumed with food.

Flavor Profile:

It can range from light to full-bodied and displays aromas and flavors of cherry, often roses and violets mingle with fairly high acidity.

Food Pairings

Italian foods (need we say more?), beef, chicken, tomato-based sauces over noodles.

This is a wine that is made for aging and will typically mature between year 5 and 10. For around $10 a pop you can enjoy a delightful Chianti, add another $10 and you'll be well on your way to experiencing a quality Chianti Classico.

Key Chianti Producers to Try:

Fontudi

Castello di Volpaia

Ruffino

Pronunciation: Kee-Ahn-tee