CHIANTI LOVERS

A wine fair takes place annually every February in Florence to celebrate the completion of the 2016 production year in Chianti.

On Sunday, February 12, Chianti Lovers Anteprima (Preview) is back once again to invite wine lovers to be among the first to sample 2016 Chianti not yet released on the market.

Representatives from over 100 estates will pour 500 types of wine.  Due to the enormous success of the past two editions, this year’s event will be held at the Fortezza da Basso in order to guarantee the tasting of wines in a relaxing and pleasurable manner.

The fair offers a chance to familiarize with the quality and the characteristics of Chianti 2016 and the Chianti Riserva 2014 from the subzones of Chianti Rufina, Colli Fiorentini, Colli Aretini, Colli Senesi, Colline Pisane (the hills around Florence, Arezzo, Siena and Pisa) as well as six additional Tuscan denominations. Doors will be open for the public from 4 to 9 pm with €15 admission (accessibility at 9:30 am is limited to trade professionals and journalists).

Chianti Lovers Anteprima welcomes visitors who are passionate about wine but also those who wish to investigate the mysteries
involved and the excitement of evaluating them. It is a chance to experience the meanings of the intense ruby colors, or hints of fruit or spicy notes on the nose, or on the palate the nuances of wild berries, vanilla, chocolate, leather or tobacco with overall smooth tannins.

These expressions refer to just some of the unique aspects of Chianti and their terroir, a unique environmental context contributing to the variety of flavors that can be distinguished. Moving among the stands there is an atmosphere of enjoyment and of feeling special as producers who are eager to hear critiques of their wines greet guests.

The term “Preview” means that the Chianti wines are still very young but still are able to give an idea of their quality and mature characteristics. In the coming months the vintages will continue to develop fragrances and aromas to express the robust quintessence of the Sangiovese grape.

A new feature of this year’s Anteprima will be the presence of a number of diminutive red Ape three-wheelers, which have slipped down from the hills of Chianti. The farm vehicles will be buzzing through the streets and squares of central Florence starting on Tuesday from 9 am to 5 pm, offering tastings directly from wineries.

These Chianti carts will provide an opportunity to acquire discounts on the tickets for the Sunday event. Late afternoon on Friday, 10th February 10 there will be a special pre-dinner aperitif offered in one of the main piazzas in town.

Sara Dal Monte