Chianti Riserva DOCG refers to a red wine made from grapes grown anywhere in the Chianti district in central southern Tuscany, from Florence in the north to Siena in the south. A Chianti Riserva must contain a minimum of 80% Sangiovese; other grapes in the wine may include local varieties such as Canaiolo or Colorino, while international varieties, such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon may also make up a small percentage of the blend. To be labeled as a Riserva, the wine much be aged for two years before release.

As most wines simply labeled Chianti are from various sites in the large Chianti zone, the wines tend to me medium-bodied, with light tannins and good acidity, and are meant for consumption in their youth. (Wine/Appellations)