Chianti, probably Italy's most famous wine, proudly announced its three hundredth birthday this year. The actual date will fall on the 24th September when Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici back in 1716 fixed the standards of the local wine that he was exporting to Britain and other northern European countries.
On that occasion the geographical boundaries for Chianti wine production were established, along with the institution of a Congregazione to control the quality. The 560 members of today's Chianti Classico Consortium , founded in 1924 and represented by the characteristic black rooster symbol, are putting together a series of events including a cycling race, a music festical, essay and art competitions for schools and others, in addition to cookery contests and – of course – wine tastings.
The Chianti Classico region has also filed an application to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Info: www.chianticlassico.com