The King of the gods

Toscana, besides well considered as Sir Anthony Hopkins’ personal heaven, it is also well renowned for its Chianti. A wine produced from grapes named after the King of the Gods, Jupiter. The Sangiovese grape together with its terroir at the foothills of the Apennines gives birth to a strong wine with high acidity and spicy notes, yet balanced by delicate red fruit flavours.

There are many Chiantis, but quality difference is huge. The best ones come from one of the 4 areas of the Classico area, consisting of Radda, Greve, Gaiole and Castellina. So, if you want a wine that will ensure great quality, opt for a Chianti Classico. If you want to reach the heavens opt for a Chianti Classico Riserva. This will guarantee a very complex character, reflecting the fantastic terroir and meticulous winemaking. If you want to reach the top of Mount Everest and live to tell the story, get a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione.  

This new shiny category was only created 10 years ago in 2014. It is the epitome of excellence in oenology. As a single vineyard wine, it is the mascot of the best terroir, a great balance between the complex delicate flavours and full body expressions developed in the bottle due to it being cradled in oak for over 30 months. Definitely worthy of the name Jupiter!

What to pair: A classic bistecca alla Fiorentina with truffled polenta and rucola on the side to complement the herbal flavours of the wine, a hearty beef wellington to marry with the wine’s earthy flavour, or even a platter consisting of delicious Prosciutto crudo and a well aged rocky Parmeggiano Reggiano. Alla Salute!