Antinori is the most famous name in Italian wine and the influence of Piero Antinori in the last 25 years has been nothing short of revolutionary. Antinori's flagship wine, Tignanello, first appeared in 1971 and caused a sensation by its use of Cabernet Sauvignon in a Sangiovese blend and with its practice of ageing in small French barriques. Antinori was accused of vinous treachery and treason but soon barrique-aged blends of Sangiovese and Cabernet began appearing all across Tuscany.

Chianti Classico DOCG occupies the historical heartland of Chianti in Tuscany, Italy, spanning the hills between Florence and Siena. This zone was formally defined in 1716 by Cosimo III de' Medici and received DOCG status in 1984. The appellation covers approximately 70,000 hectares across parts of eight communes, including Castellina in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Gaiole in Chianti.

The region's galestro and alberese soils, combined with elevations ranging from 200 to 600 meters, create ideal conditions for Sangiovese cultivation. Chianti Classico must contain a minimum of 80% Sangiovese, with the remainder typically filled by indigenous varieties like Canaiolo or international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Riserva wines require a minimum of 24 months aging, including at least three months in bottle, compared to 12 months for standard Chianti Classico.

Chianti Classico wines are characterized by bright acidity, moderate tannins, and flavors of red cherry, violet, and herbs. The Sangiovese grape imparts a distinctive combination of fruit and earthiness, often accompanied by notes of leather, tobacco, and mineral undertones from the region's diverse soils. Riserva bottlings typically show greater concentration and complexity, with enhanced aging potential that can extend decades for the finest examples.