Aside from referring to a very famous – and rather appetizing – wine, Chianti also refers to the particular region of Italy that beverage originates from. However, the boundaries of this region are not very clearly defined, and, in recent years, its name has become an umbrella term used to designate not only the “real” Chianti, but also its surrounding towns and areas. Therefore, when booking a Chianti villa rental, you may not be located in the area itself, but in one of the surrounding municipalities that fall under the umbrella.
What is where?
The region’s stunning landscapes, the quality of its wine, its mild weather and the fact that it is the heart of Tuscany – and, therefore, an excellent base for exploration – make a Chianti villa rental an attractive proposition for most Italian travellers. However, what many of these people are not aware of is that they may not be officially staying in Chianti itself.
The “real” Chianti is a 20km strip of hilly land that includes the municipalities of Gaole, Radda and Castellina, which formed part of the “Florentine Military League” based in the region in ancient times. Before that, it had been populated by the Etruscans and the Romans, and been naturally isolated for centuries, preventing barbarian invasions and helping villas in hoskote preserve the natural beauty of its surroundings. In the Middle Ages, it served as a battle ground for the armies of Siena and Florence, who both attempted to conquer this attractive region. It was only after the smoke had cleared and the area had recovered its peaceful, idyllic nature that the Chianti we know and love today began to develop in earnest, with many of the cultures the region is known for (such as olive trees) being introduced during this period.
However, in recent years, wine regulations – and, one suspects, the demand for Chianti villa rental properties, as well – have caused the designation to be applied to other areas surrounding these three municipalities. The wines from this region – which includes the municipalities of San Casciano and Tavarnelle in Val di Pesa, Greve and part of Barberino Val D’Elsa, as well as the Sienese areas of Castelnuovo Berardenga and Poggibonsi – became known as “Chianti Classico”, and are also considered part of the denomination.
As such, people seeking a Chianti villa rental should know that, aside from the three municipalities that constitute the region itself, they may find themselves located in one of the surrounding “Chianti Classico” areas. But that is certainly not a bad thing- the entire region is stunning and well worth a visit!
