Tuscany is the home of Sangiovese, Italy's most planted red grape. In Chianti Classico it makes medium-bodied, high-acid, cherry-scented reds. In Brunello di Montalcino (100% Sangiovese Grosso) it becomes one of Italy's most age-worthy wines. Bolgheri on the coast gave birth to the "Super Tuscans": blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that bypassed traditional DOC rules.
Piedmont in the northwest is home to Nebbiolo, one of the world's greatest but most demanding grapes. In Barolo and Barbaresco it produces wines with fierce tannin, high acidity and aromas of roses, tar and dried herbs: needing 10+ years to open. Piedmont also has the lighter Barbera d'Asti and the sparkling Moscato d'Asti.
