Tuscany (Toscana)

Tuscany is a famous wine region in central Italy. It is best known for red wines made from Sangiovese and for some coastal wines made from Cabernet and Merlot.

What the wines are like

Many Tuscan reds are known for:

• cherry and dried herb flavours
• fresh acidity
• firm tannins

Coastal Tuscan wines are often richer and smoother, with darker fruit and more oak influence.

Famous wine names to recognise

• Chianti Classico (Sangiovese red)
• Brunello di Montalcino (100% Sangiovese, long-aged)
• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (Sangiovese-based red)
• Bolgheri (Cabernet/Merlot blends)
• Vernaccia di San Gimignano (white wine)

Why Tuscany tastes different in different places

Inland hills are cooler and help wines stay fresh. Coastal areas are warmer and make riper wines.

Summary

Tuscany makes some of Italy’s most famous red wines, mainly from Sangiovese. It also makes richer coastal blends and an important white wine called Vernaccia.