Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the Chianti region is not just home to some of the world’s most celebrated red wines; it is also the host to an array of vibrant festivals that celebrate the rich tradition of winemaking. For wine enthusiasts, these festivals offer a perfect blend of cultural immersion and sensory delight.
Mark your calendars, for we’re about to tour the annual festivities that make Chianti experience a year-round destination for oenophiles.
Spring – Radda nel Bicchiere
When: Late May
Spring in Chianti is where life starts to bloom, and what better way to celebrate this than with ‘Radda nel Bicchiere’ (Radda in the Glass). This event in the picturesque town of Radda in Chianti helps wine lovers kick off the festival season with a taste of the finest local wines paired with exquisite local cuisine.
Summer – Chianti Classico Eroica
When: Early June
As the rolling hills turn golden under the Tuscan sun, the Chianti Classico Eroica comes to life. This enchanting event combines the love for historic cycling with exquisite Chianti Classico tasting opportunities. Cyclists in vintage gear traverse the scenic landscapes, and the day ends with celebratory wine tasting events in the towns.
High Summer – Calici di Stelle
When: August 10th
“Calici di Stelle,” or Goblets of Stars, is an event that coincides with the night of San Lorenzo, when shooting stars light up the night sky. Numerous wineries and towns in Chianti partake, offering an opportunity to taste exceptional wines under the twinkling heavens, turning wine tasting into a truly magical experience.
Autumn – Chianti Classico Expo
When: September
Autumn brings the harvest, and with it the Chianti Classico Expo in Greve in Chianti comes alive. The focal point of the wine-growing calendar, the expo is a deep dive into the culture of Chianti Classico. Here, aficionados can meet the winemakers, learn about the terroir, and sample a myriad of vintages.
Late Autumn – Vino al Vino Panzano Wine Festival
When: Third weekend of September
Vino al Vino allows wine lovers to celebrate amongst the vine-clad hills of Panzano. This intimate festival showcases local vintners who take pride in their organic and biodynamic practices. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation in each glass tasted.
Winter – Festa del Tordo and the Open Cellars
When: November
The winter months may seem quieter in the Chianti region, but the Festa del Tordo in late November brings locals and tourists together to enjoy medieval archery, historical parades, and, of course, the opening of cellars where the year’s new wines are ready for tasting.
Chianti’s wine festivals are so much more than an opportunity to sample the treasured ruby libations from the fertile Tuscan soil. They are a ritualistic celebration of the land, the people, and the centuries-old craft of wine-making. Attending any of these festivals not only deepens one’s appreciation for the fine Chianti tasting but also imprints unforgettable memories of Tuscan tradition, flavour, and fellowship.
