Tuscany with its beautiful landscapes, rich artistic legacy and vast influence on culture is famous the world over for its wines and is home to some of the world's most iconic wine regions.
Gourmets and wine buffs descend on Tuscany to enjoy the simple yet wonderful cuisine and wine.
Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made with Sangiovese grapes whereas the Vernaccia grape is the basis of the white Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Tuscany is also known for the dessert wine Vin Santo, made from a variety of the region's grapes. As long ago as the 3rd century BC, there were literary references by Greek writers about the quality of Tuscan wine.
The Sangiovese grape performs extremely well in the sunny Tuscan hillsides found at altitudes of 150–500 metres. The higher elevations also help the grapes maintain their balance of sugars and acidity as well as their aromatic qualities.
