Toscana IGT

Toscana IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) is an appellation created in 1995 to allow Tuscan producers to experiment with new expressions of wine outside the strict production rules of the DOCs and DOCGs. This category gave rise to the famous Super Tuscans, wines of excellent quality often made with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, but also with native varieties such as Sangiovese, Vermentino and Trebbiano.

---

Characteristics of Toscana IGT Wines

Colour

• Reds: Deep ruby red, with garnet reflections in the aged wines.
• Whites: Bright straw yellow, with golden shades in riper wines.
• Rosés: Pale pink or cherry pink, bright and lively.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of cherry, blackberry, redcurrant, plum in the reds; green apple, citrus and tropical fruit in the whites.
• Floral: Hints of violet and rose in the reds, white flowers and acacia in the whites.
• Spicy: Hints of vanilla, black pepper, cinnamon in reds matured in wood.
• Mineral: Chalky, savoury nuances, typical of coastal areas.

Palate

• Reds: Structured, tannic and lingering, with a harmonious finish.
• Whites: Fresh and savoury, with vibrant acidity and great drinkability.
• Rosés: Balanced and fruity, with a pleasant freshness.

---

Production Areas

The appellation Toscana IGT covers the whole of the Tuscany region, but some areas are particularly well suited to producing high-quality wines:

• Bolgheri e Maremma: Famous for the Super Tuscans, with powerful, long-lived reds.
• Chianti Classico and Montepulciano: They produce Sangiovese of great expression.
• Val d’Orcia and Colline Senesi: Areas with elegant, mineral wines.
• Coastal Area (Versilia, Isola d’Elba): Ideal for fresh whites and fragrant rosés.

---

Grape Varieties Used

Black Grape Varieties

• Sangiovese: The king of Tuscany, with structure and longevity.
• Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot: Used in Super Tuscans to give body and roundness.
• Syrah: Spicy and elegant, perfect for intense reds.

White Grape Varieties

• Vermentino: Fresh and mineral, ideal for savoury whites.
• Trebbiano Toscano: A traditional variety for light, perfumed white wines.
• Chardonnay: Often aged in wood for greater structure.

---

Typical Winemaking

• Fermentation in Stainless Steel: For fresh whites and fruity reds.
• Ageing in Oak Casks: For the most complex and long-lived reds.
• Ancestral Method and Sur Lie: Used for some innovative whites and artisan sparkling wines.

---

Food Pairings

Red Wines

• Red Meat: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar stew.
• Game: Hare in red wine, roast pheasant.
• Aged Cheeses: Pecorino Toscano DOP, Parmigiano Reggiano.

White Wines

• Grilled Fish: Sea bass, sea bream, chargrilled octopus.
• First Courses: Seafood risotto, spaghetti alle vongole.
• Fresh Cheeses: Ricotta, goat's cheese.

Rosé Wines

• Tuscan Cured Meats: Finocchiona, Tuscan ham.
• Vegetable Dishes: Pappa al pomodoro, panzanella salad.

---

Why Choose a Toscana IGT Wine?

The Toscana IGT is one of the most dynamic and versatile appellations, making it possible to produce innovative, high-quality wines, without the restrictions of the DOC and DOCG appellations. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a wine that is modern, expressive and rooted in the Tuscan terroir, from Super Tuscans to fresh, fragrant whites.