Valdichiana toscana

Styles

Principal grape varieties

Accessory grape varieties

Terroir

• The production zone extends in a north–south-oriented hillside belt, at elevations ranging from a minimum of 250 metres to a maximum of 500 metres.
• The geological substratum consists largely of Pliocene marine sediments with a predominance of sands, especially at higher elevations, while other soils develop on early Pleistocene continental sediments.
• Soils derived from sandy Pliocene deposits show low cation-exchange capacity and conductivity with average limestone values, whereas silty-clay and clay Pliocene soils display higher values of both limestone content and conductivity.
• The climate is Mediterranean in character, with a Winkler index averaging around 1,900°, falling to around 1,750° at higher elevations.
• Mean annual rainfall recorded over multiple years is 690 mm, with peak precipitation in October and November and a generally dry summer.

• Etruscan winemaking techniques are attested by the discovery of monolithic stone slabs with grooves, used to press grapes by treading.
• In Etruscan times the area was called the granary of Etruria, yet its hills were already dotted with vineyards.

• The red wines of the Tuscan Valdichiana display an intense ruby colour, an intense bouquet with primary fruity and floral notes, and are medium-bodied and elegant on the palate.
• Vin Santo and Vin Santo Riserva show a yellow colour ranging from golden to deep amber, an intense and ethereal bouquet with notes of ripe fruit, and a velvety, elegant palate ranging from dry to medium-sweet.

• Scarce summer rainfall generally induces moderate water stress, which tends to promote the ripening phase at the expense of the vegetative growth of the vines.

Facts drawn from the specification's terroir-link section by automatic interpretation — see the source.

All appellations in Italy

Sources

• eAmbrosia register (EU) — File number PDO-IT-A1510
• Official trade body site — Consorzio Vini Valdichiana Toscana