MAIN Wine Europe Italy Chianti

If Chianti brings a vision of straw bottles of not very good wine and red checkered table cloths to mind...it's time to sample some of the better Chianti wines being produced.

Chianti is a wine producing region in Italy world famous for its dry, red wines. Chianti is located in the center of Tuscany wine making area with Florence on the northern end, and Siena marking the southern boundary. The region is divided into smaller areas. with Chianti Classico at the center with the most prestigious wine.

Chianti can range from light to full-bodied with differing tastes and textures found in other Chianti sub-regions including Chianti Rufina, Chianti Colli Fiorentini, Chianti Colli Sensesi, and Chianti Colli Aretini.

The main grape used in Chianti is the Sangiovese, but it may be blended with other grapes, including Trebbiano.

Full-bodied Chianti is a wine to enjoy with food, especially with main specialties of the region -- including pasta with red sauces, beef dishes and regional cheeses. Lighter styles usually pair better with pork, chicken, and even fish courses.

With a nod to "Silence of the Lambs", a nice Chianti will even pair well with fava beans and other Tuscan white bean dishes!

More information about Chianti wines and vineyards around the Web:

Around the Web, get know Chianti and where and how it's produced, along with travel information if you happen to be touring Florence and surroundings:

Chianti Classico - Go on a virtual tour of the history, the making and distribution of the premier Chianti including photo galleries, an illustrated survey of Chianti territory, a searchable database of related restaurants and regional wineries offering tours and tastings.

Chianti Wine Information - Here's fun a guide to Chianti's traditional basket covering and the wine's place in pop culture, with related photos and resources to more information.