National Chianti Day: Tuscany’s Iconic Wine

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Every year on the 1st Friday of September, wine lovers around the world, get together to celebrate National Chianti Day. This day is all about Chianti, one of Italy’s most famous wines, born from the soil and history of Tuscany. As Australians love good wine and Italian heritage, National Chianti Day is the perfect excuse to tell the story of Chianti from its beginning to its global impact.

What is Chianti?

Chianti is a red wine from the Tuscany region of central Italy, a land of beauty and centuries of winemaking heritage. The wine is mostly made from Sangiovese grapes, the heart of Chianti’s soul. Sangiovese, named after the Latin “sanguis Jovis” (the blood of Jupiter), has high acidity, firm tannins and flavours of red cherries, dried herbs and violets.

The Grapes and Chianti

Chianti has its origins in the 13th century when winemakers in the Chianti region (Castellina, Gaiole and Radda) started to produce wine from a blend of grapes. Originally Chianti was a white wine but over time red grapes, especially Sangiovese, became the main component.

In the 19th century Baron Bettino Ricasoli, a Tuscan statesman and winemaker, created the “Chianti formula”. This blend was 70% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo (a red grape) and 15% Malvasia (a white grape). This formula defined the Chianti style but the use of white grapes has been phased out and nowadays the blend is more Sangiovese focused.

Today Chianti wines must have at least 70-80% Sangiovese and the rest is often made up of other red grapes like Canaiolo, Colorino or even international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This blend gives Chianti its bright acidity, medium body and a flavour profile that goes from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy.

 

The Birth of Chianti Classico

In 1716 the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo III de’ Medici, officially defined the Chianti region and its boundaries making it one of the first wine regions in the world to be legally protected. This region, now known as Chianti Classico, is the birthplace of Chianti wine. Wines from this area are labelled “Chianti Classico” and must meet strict production rules including a minimum aging period and a high percentage of Sangiovese grapes.

The black rooster (Gallo Nero) on the neck of Chianti Classico bottles is the symbol of quality and authenticity, it represents the historical rivalry between Florence and Siena and the victory of Florence that defined the boundaries of the Chianti region.

  • Chianti’s Origins: The first use of the name “Chianti” to describe the wine was in 1398. But the region’s winemaking history goes back even further, to Etruscan and Roman times.
  • Chianti Classico Requirements: To be labelled as Chianti Classico the wine must be produced in the original Chianti region and must meet the rules, including a minimum aging period of 7 months and at least 80% Sangiovese.
  • The Black Rooster Legend: The Gallo Nero, or black rooster, symbol comes from a legend about the medieval rivalry between Florence and Siena. According to the story, a black rooster’s early crowing allowed Florence to claim more territory during a border dispute and thus defined the original boundaries of the Chianti region.

Conclusion

National Chianti Day is a celebration of a wine that has gone beyond its origins to become an Italian icon and a benchmark of winemaking. In Australia, this day is celebrated with a series of events that bring together the best of Italian culture, food and of course wine. Whether you’re attending a festival, a winemaker dinner or simply enjoying a glass of Chianti at home National Chianti Day is an opportunity to appreciate the history and the timelessness of this Tuscan icon.

International Cabernet Sauvignon Day: The King of Red Wines

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Every year wine lovers around the world celebrate International Cabernet Sauvignon Day, a day to honor one of the most popular grapes in the world. On the 30th of August, both seasoned wine drinkers and casual sippers are encouraged to taste the big, bold flavours of Cabernet Sauvignon, aka the King of Red Wines.

How Cabernet Sauvignon was Discovered: An Accident

The story of how Cabernet Sauvignon was discovered is an accident. In the 17th century in the vineyards of Bordeaux, France, a natural crossing occurred between two well known grapes: Cabernet Franc, a red grape and Sauvignon Blanc, a white grape. This accident created a new grape variety—Cabernet Sauvignon.

The details of this cross-pollination were a mystery for centuries until modern DNA testing in the 1990s proved the parentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. This explained the grape’s unique characteristics, the structure and tannins of Cabernet Franc and the crisp, aromatic qualities of Sauvignon Blanc.

This accidental cross-pollination created a grape that would become a foundation of Bordeaux winemaking and eventually a global force. Winemakers quickly saw the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon, not just for its big flavors and deep color but for its ability to thrive in many climates and produce high quality wines.

The Origins and Early History of Cabernet Sauvignon

After its discovery Cabernet Sauvignon started to take root in the Médoc region of Bordeaux where it loved the gravelly soils that drained well and reflected the sun onto the vines. The thick skins made it resistant to disease and rot, a major plus in Bordeaux’s capricious climate.

By the 18th century Cabernet Sauvignon was a mainstay of Bordeaux blends, especially on the Left Bank where it was often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc to make the region’s famous wines. These blends were prized for their balance, complexity and ability to age, the benchmark for red wines everywhere.

Cabernet Sauvignon’s Global Travels

Cabernet Sauvignon’s success in Bordeaux didn’t go unnoticed and soon it was being grown in other parts of Europe and beyond. In the 19th century it made its way to the New World where it found a happy home in California’s Napa Valley. The warm sunny climate of Napa allowed Cabernet Sauvignon to ripen fully, producing wines with intense fruit flavors and robust tannins that are the hallmark of the region.

In Australia Cabernet Sauvignon was introduced in the mid 19th century and quickly became a leading grape variety, especially in regions like Coonawarra and Margaret River. Australian Cabernet Sauvignons are known for their individuality, often with eucalyptus or mint notes and rich dark fruit flavors. They have international recognition for their unique character and quality.

Cabernet Sauvignon also found success in South America, especially in Chile and Argentina where the grape loves the high altitude vineyards of the Andes. Chilean Cabernet Sauvignons are praised for their balance and structure, often more restrained than their New World counterparts.

Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics

Cabernet Sauvignon is big, bold, deep and tannic, one of the most powerful and long lived red wines. The thick skins give it its intense color and tannic structure that allows it to age for decades in the bottle.

Flavor-wise Cabernet Sauvignon is often described as blackcurrant, blackberry and plum with secondary notes of tobacco, cedar, mint, eucalyptus and even graphite. Oak aging can add vanilla, spice and chocolate to the wine’s complexity.

One of the reasons Cabernet Sauvignon is so popular is its versatility. It can be enjoyed young with its big fruit and firm tannins or aged for many years to develop more complexity and a smoother texture.

The Future of Cabernet Sauvignon

As the world of wine moves forward Cabernet Sauvignon stays at the top, always offering something new and interesting. Winemakers are trying organic and biodynamic farming, low intervention winemaking and new regions to grow the grape. These innovations will keep Cabernet Sauvignon in the hearts of wine lovers everywhere.

In Australia sustainable vineyard practices and exploring new terroirs will keep Australian Cabernet Sauvignon in the game. Regions like Coonawarra with its terra rossa soils and Margaret River with its maritime climate are producing wines that show the individuality of Australian Cabernet.

Conclusion

International Cabernet Sauvignon Day is to celebrate this great varietal! Whether you’re opening a special bottle or trying a new favourite, today is the day to pour a drop of Cab Sav and enjoy!

The Shiraz Story

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The Shiraz grape, also known as Syrah, is one of the most famous grapes in the world. Its history is full of mystery, culture and transformation so it’s a great subject for wine lovers and historians.

Origins: Two Names

The name Shiraz is often associated with the city of Shiraz in modern day Iran so it’s common to think the grape originated there. But the true origins of the Syrah/Shiraz grape are in the Rhône Valley of France where it’s been grown for over 1000 years. The grape’s ancestral roots go back to two lesser known varieties: Dureza, a dark skinned grape from Ardèche and Mondeuse Blanche, a white grape from Savoie. These two grapes were naturally crossed to produce Syrah. The name Shiraz became popular in Australia where the grape was first planted in the 1830s. James Busby, a Scottish viticulturist, is credited with bringing the Syrah cuttings to Australia where it thrived in the country’s varied climates. Over time Australians began to call the grape Shiraz and the name has since become synonymous with the big, spicy wines of Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.

 

The French Connection: Syrah in the Rhône Valley

In France Syrah has been a mainstay of the Rhône Valley, particularly in the northern regions of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Saint-Joseph. Here the grape grows in the granite soils and produces wines that are deep coloured, full bodied and known for their complex aromas of blackberries, black pepper and violets. The French Syrahs are often praised for their ageing potential, getting more complex over time.

Syrah is also a component in many southern Rhône blends, particularly in Châteauneuf-du-Pape where it’s blended with Grenache, Mourvèdre and other varieties to produce full bodied and flavourful wines.

 

The Australian Evolution: Shiraz Comes to the Fore

While Syrah was thriving in France, Shiraz was developing its own personality in Australia. The warmer climate and diverse terroirs allowed Shiraz to show a different character, wines that were riper, fruitier and often more approachable at a younger age than their French counterparts.

Australian Shiraz quickly gained international recognition with regions like Barossa Valley becoming famous for their big, rich Shiraz wines. These wines are known for their intense plum, chocolate and black pepper flavours and often a smoky finish. Some of the most famous Australian Shiraz wines, like Penfolds Grange, are icons of the wine world and command high prices and top awards.

 

Global Expansion: Shiraz Everywhere

Beyond France and Australia Shiraz has found a home in many wine producing regions around the world. In South Africa it’s known for its smoky wines, often referred to as “roasted” or “burnt”. In the USA, particularly in California’s Central Coast and Washington State, Syrah/Shiraz is being used by winemakers to produce big, fruit forward wines with a touch of elegance.

Other countries like Argentina, Chile and New Zealand have also adopted Shiraz each with their own regional spin on the grape.

The Modern Era: Shiraz Today

Today Shiraz is one of the most popular and widely planted grape varieties in the world. It has a dual identity, Syrah in its traditional French home and Shiraz in the New World. This duality means wine lovers can explore a broad range of styles, from the elegant and age worthy Syrahs of the Rhône Valley to the big and expressive Shiraz wines of Australia.

Shiraz’s longevity is due to its ability, its robustness and the joy it brings in the glass. Whether young or old Shiraz will always charm wine lovers with its history and flavour. A true icon of wine.

The Prosecco Debate: A Sparkling Controversy Between Australia and Italy

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In the rolling hills of Italy’s Veneto region, Prosecco means a sparkling wine that is Italian, traditional, cultural and geographical. But a fizzy controversy has erupted as Australian winemakers produce and market their own Prosecco, and the debate goes global, across continents, legal frameworks and what a name means in the world of wine.

The History of Prosecco

Prosecco, a light, refreshing sparkling wine, comes from the northeastern part of Italy, specifically the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. It’s made mainly from the Glera grape, historically known as Prosecco. In 2009 Italy created the Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) to protect the name Prosecco, tying it to the specific geographical areas where it’s produced. This move was to ensure that only wines produced in those regions and according to strict rules could be labelled Prosecco.

The Australian Scenario

Australia’s wine industry is known for its ability to innovate and adapt and started planting Glera grapes in the late 90s and early 2000s, long before the 2009 Italian legislation. Australian winemakers saw the name Prosecco as an opportunity to connect with consumers who knew the Italian original and the wine took off in Australia and internationally. Many producers jumped on the bandwagon and rode the name’s fun, approachable and affordable bubbles.

But as Australian Prosecco became popular, the Italian wine authorities and the European Union (EU) started to push back, saying the name Prosecco should be protected under the rules of geographical indication (GI). The Italians say just as Champagne must come from the Champagne region of France, Prosecco should be Italian only and tied to its place of origin.

The Legal Fight

The core of the debate is around the meaning of the word Prosecco itself. The Italian position is that Prosecco is not just a grape variety but a place name and therefore should be protected as a geographical indication. Australian producers argue that Prosecco is a grape variety they have been using for years and they shouldn’t be restricted from using the name to describe the wine made from it.

This has led to intense trade negotiations between the EU and Australia. The EU wants to include the protection of the name Prosecco in a broader trade agreement, effectively preventing Australian winemakers from using the term. Australia is resisting this move, seeing it as unfair to their wine industry and a threat to the livelihoods of their Prosecco producers.

The Bigger Picture

The Australian Prosecco debate is not just about wine; it’s about intellectual property, global trade and the balance between tradition and innovation in the wine industry. For Italy, the protection of the Prosecco name is about cultural heritage and making sure consumers aren’t misled by products that don’t meet the same standards as the Italian original.

For Australia it’s about market fairness and the right to use a term that’s become part of their wine industry. Australian winemakers say they’ve invested heavily in the Prosecco brand and consumers associate the name with a style of wine rather than a place.

Prosecco in Australia

For now the dispute remains unresolved with both sides dug in. The outcome of this will have big implications for other products that use geographical indications and potentially set a precedent for how these disputes are handled in the future.

For wine lovers and producers in Australia the name Prosecco may become a battlefield in a bigger fight over the right to use cultural terms in a globalised world. Whether Australian Prosecco will continue to be called Prosecco or will have to rebrand remains to be seen but one thing is for sure, this bubble is far from popped.

In the end the Prosecco debate gets to the heart of identity, authenticity and the future of the global wine industry. As Australia and Italy dig in their heels the world watches with interest, glass in hand, to see which way the cork will go.

World Pinot Noir Day: A Global Favourite

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Every year on August 18th wine fans around the world get together to celebrate one of the most loved and respected grape varieties—Pinot Noir. Elegance, complexity and versatility are the hallmarks of Pinot Noir and it has a special place in the hearts of wine fans and winemakers. World Pinot Noir Day is the chance to pour a glass to this classic varietal and explore its history, quirks and global reach.

The History of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir, known as the “heartbreak grape” due to its tricky nature in the vineyard, has a long history dating back over 2,000 years. Originating in the Burgundy region of France, Pinot Noir has been associated with some of the world’s greatest wines. The name Pinot Noir comes from the French words for “pine” (pin) and “black” (noir) and refers to the tight, pinecone shaped clusters of small, dark skinned grapes.

Burgundy is the spiritual home of Pinot Noir where the grape loves the cool climate and limestone soils. The wines here are famous for their subtlety, finesse and ability to age, with the best examples expressing the terroir of their individual vineyards.

Pinot Noir Around the World

While Burgundy is the reference point, Pinot Noir has found success in wine regions everywhere. In the New World, countries like the US, New Zealand and Australia have taken up the challenge of growing Pinot Noir and are producing wines that show the grape’s versatility and breadth.

In California, the cool climate regions of Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley and Santa Barbara have become hotbeds for great Pinot Noir. The wines from these regions often have bright red fruit flavours, silky tannins and a hint of spice and are loved by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Marlborough and Central Otago in New Zealand have also gained international recognition for their juicy and aromatic Pinot Noirs. These wines are known for their fruit purity often with cherry, raspberry and plum flavours and a sense of minerality that is unique to the country.

Australia, particularly the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, has found a home for Pinot Noir too. The wines from these regions are praised for their balance and complexity with a harmonious mix of fruit, earth and spice.

The Magic of Pinot Noir

What’s the magic of Pinot Noir? It’s its versatility and sense of place. Pinot Noir can be light and delicate or rich and full bodied and is a perfect match for many dishes. Whether with roasted chicken, grilled salmon or earthy mushroom risotto, Pinot Noir can complement flavours without overpowering them.

Plus Pinot Noir’s high acidity and moderate alcohol makes it a refreshing choice for summer and its complexity and depth can be comforting in winter. Its ability to adapt to different climates and winemaking styles means there’s a Pinot Noir for everyone.

How to celebrate World Pinot Noir Day

Celebrating World Pinot Noir Day is easy: open a bottle of your favourite Pinot Noir and enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just starting your wine journey this is a great opportunity to try many Pinot Noirs.

If you want to broaden your horizons consider hosting a Pinot Noir tasting with friends or attending a local wine event. Try different regions and styles from the classic Burgundian to the new world. Take the time to appreciate the subtle differences in flavour, aroma and texture that make Pinot Noir so special.

If you’re feeling bold try pairing your Pinot Noir with unusual dishes. The wine’s versatility can match many cuisines from Mediterranean to Asian inspired. Experimenting with food pairings can increase your appreciation of the grape and bring out new dimensions in both the wine and the dish.

End

World Pinot Noir Day is more than just a celebration of a grape; it’s a celebration of the craftsmanship, passion and dedication that goes into every bottle of wine. Pinot Noir’s journey from its ancient roots in Burgundy to its global status today is proof of its timeless appeal and the love winemakers and wine lovers have for this special grape.

Japan’s Koshu Wine Grapes: A Secret in the Wine World

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In the wine world, Japan isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But in the foothills of Mount Fuji, Koshu grapes are making a quiet impact, and wine lovers can taste Japanese terroir. With a history over 1000 years old, Koshu is Japan’s secret gem, and the country’s rich culture and attention to detail.

Koshu History

The origins of Koshu are unknown, but it’s thought to have been brought to Japan from the Caucasus region via the Silk Road around 1300 years ago. For centuries it was eaten rather than made into wine. It wasn’t until the late 19th century, during the Meiji era, that Koshu was first vinified and Japan’s wine industry was born.

Today Koshu is grown mainly in Yamanashi Prefecture which accounts for around 95% of Japan’s wine production. The region’s climate, hot and humid summers and cold winters, is perfect for Koshu. The volcanic soil, enriched by Mount Fuji, gives the grapes a unique mineral taste and Koshu wines are truly of their place.

Koshu Wine Characteristics

Koshu wines are light and subtle, perfect for those who like a lighter style of wine. The grapes produce a pale straw coloured wine with a pinkish tint, a reference to the grape skin. On the nose Koshu wines have white peach, citrus and floral notes with a hint of minerality from the volcanic soil.

On the palate Koshu wines are crisp and refreshing with bright acidity making them very food friendly. The flavours are delicate, often described as citrus, apple and pear with a hint of umami which pairs beautifully with Japanese food. The low alcohol, around 11-12%, makes it a great wine for casual and serious wine drinkers alike.

Grace Winery: Koshu Pioneers

Among Koshu producers, Grace Winery is one of the most respected and innovative. Located in the heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, Grace Winery has been at the forefront of Japan’s wine industry since 1923. They are known for their quality and being the first to produce Koshu wines that showcase the grape’s unique characteristics.

Grace Winery’s Koshu wines are elegant, balanced and terroir expressive. The winery takes great care in the vineyard and winemaking to ensure each bottle is a true representation of the Koshu grape. Their flagship wine, the Grace Koshu, is the perfect example of what this grape can produce – delicate floral aromas, crisp acidity and a refined mineral finish that lingers on the palate.

Koshu and Japanese Food

One of the best things about Koshu wine is how it pairs with Japanese food. The subtlety and elegance of the wine makes it a perfect match for dishes like sushi, sashimi and tempura where the focus is on the purity of the ingredients. The acidity of Koshu cuts through the richness of grilled fish or pork, and the mineral notes enhance the umami in miso soup or soy sauce based dishes.

Beyond Japanese food, Koshu’s versatility extends to many international cuisines. Its light body and crisp finish makes it a great match for Mediterranean food, seafood and light salads. Whether with food or on its own, Koshu is a refreshing and sophisticated drink.

Koshu in Australia

For wine lovers in Australia, the good news is that Koshu wines, including those from Grace Winery, are becoming more available. As Japanese wine interest grows, more Australian retailers and importers are starting to stock Koshu wines so you can try it without leaving the country. Whether you want to try Grace Winery or other Koshu producers, now is the time to add this Japanese gem to your cellar.

Koshu’s Growing Fame

Koshu wine is gaining international recognition. Japanese winemakers are fine tuning their skills and producing wines that can compete with the best in the world. The uniqueness of Koshu has caught the attention of sommeliers and wine critics and exports are increasing and Koshu is appearing in wine markets outside Japan, including Australia.

Despite its growing popularity, Koshu is still a niche product and a chance for wine lovers to try something different and new. For those looking to broaden their wine horizons, Koshu is a window into Japan’s emerging wine scene.

Final Thoughts

The Koshu grape is proof that Japan can blend tradition and modernity and create something unique. As more people around the world try Koshu wine, it’s clear this grape from the foot of Mount Fuji has a lot to look forward to. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just curious, Koshu is worth trying – an elegant and understated expression of Japan’s terroir and winemaking history. Now with Grace Winery wines available in Australia, it’s just a bottle away.