From now on, Chianti will also be available as a rosé

When you hear ‘Chianti’, you probably immediately think of a red wine from Tuscany. But that’s about to change. Since 13 June 2026, Chianti Rosé DOCG has been officially authorised. This means that one of Italy’s best-known wine regions is set to welcome a completely new style of wine.
Text: Ingrid Larmoyeur (The Wine Institute) | Image: Pexels

The new rosato must consist of at least 50% and no more than 100% of Sangiovese. The remainder may be supplemented with the red grape varieties also permitted for Chianti, such as Canaiolo Nero, Colorino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, plus a maximum of 10% of white grape varieties.

During vinification, the grape skins remain in contact with the must for just a few hours, followed by gentle pressing. The result should be a light salmon-pink, dry rosé with fresh acidity, low tannins and great gastronomic potential. In short: more of a serious food-pairing rosé than a poolside wine.

What stands out

It is noteworthy that the well-known Chianti sub-zones, such as Rufina, Colli Senesi and Colli Fiorentini, are now also permitted to produce their own Chianti Rosé DOCG. In addition, a new sub-zone has been announced: Terre di Vinci, named after Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace.

Another striking feature is that the traditional straw-wrapped fiasco bottle – the very icon of classic Chianti – is expressly prohibited for Chianti Rosé. This gives the new wine a contemporary look.

Expansion

We probably won’t have to wait much longer for the first bottles. This is because Chianti Rosé may be bottled and sold from 1 December onwards, following the harvest, whilst red Chianti may only be released onto the market from 1 March. The 2026 harvest will be the first vintage produced entirely in accordance with the new regulations.

Chianti has been one of the world’s most famous wine names for decades, but has not yet made its mark in the rapidly growing market for quality rosé. With this move, the consortium is not breaking with tradition, but rather expanding upon it. The familiar Sangiovese continues to take centre stage, only now also in a fresh rosé version.

Don't want to miss a single edition? Subscribe then subscribe to WINELIFE Magazine now!

Want to stay up to date with the best articles? Follow WINELIFE magazine on Instagram, Facebook and sign up for our fortnightly newsletter.