Chianti Classico DOCG

Chianti Classico DOCG is the historic wine zone between Florence and Siena, distinct from generic Chianti. The boundary dates back to 1716, when the Grand Duke of Tuscany defined it by decree, making it one of the world's oldest protected wine appellations. It became DOCG in 1984 and requires a minimum 80% Sangiovese with at least one year of aging. The quality pyramid runs Annata, Riserva, and Gran Selezione (added in 2014). Key towns: Greve, Castellina, Radda, Gaiole. For travelers, this area has a distinctive hospitality format: working wineries that welcome guests (Castello di Ama, Felsina), plus villa hotels like Castello del Nero, Villa Le Barone, and Borgo San Felice.