About National Chianti Day
A Toast to Tuscany's Beloved Red
National Chianti Day, celebrated on the first Friday in September, is a perfect opportunity to raise a glass to one of Italy's most iconic red wines. This day honors Chianti, a classic wine from the heart of Tuscany, known for its rich history and food-friendly character. While the wine itself has roots stretching back centuries, this official observance is a more recent tradition, founded in 2020 by Santa Margherita USA. It's a day for wine lovers everywhere to appreciate the craftsmanship and tradition behind every bottle of this Tuscan treasure.
The History of Chianti
The story of Chianti begins in the picturesque, rolling hills of Tuscany, an area famous for its beautiful landscapes and a long history of winemaking. The first recorded mention of wine from the Chianti region dates back to the 13th century. Over time, the wine evolved, and in the 19th century, a formula was created by Baron Bettino Ricasoli. His "recipe" was based on a blend of grapes, with the Sangiovese grape at its heart. Today, Chianti must be made with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes, giving it its signature flavor profile of bright red fruit and earthy notes.
How to Celebrate
Celebrating National Chianti Day is as simple as enjoying a glass of this delightful wine! Since Chianti's high acidity and balanced tannins make it an excellent pairing for food, why not prepare a traditional Tuscan meal?
Whip up a classic pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce.
Create a platter of cured meats and aged cheeses.
Grill a flavorful steak or prepare a hearty stew.
You could also host a wine-tasting party with friends, exploring the different classifications of Chianti, such as Chianti Classico or Chianti Riserva, to find your new favorite.
Did you know? Early Chianti wines were actually blended with white grapes, a practice that has since been phased out to focus on the Sangiovese varietal.
Did you know? The iconic black rooster, or "Gallo Nero," symbol found on bottles of Chianti Classico is based on a medieval legend about a land dispute between the rival cities of Florence and Siena.
Did you know? For a long time, Chianti was associated with the squat bottle enclosed in a straw basket, a style known as a "fiasco." While this is now rare, it remains an iconic symbol of the wine's history.
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