Carmignano DOCG
カルミニャーノDOCG
A historic Tuscan pioneer blending Sangiovese with Cabernet.
Carmignano DOCG is one of Italy's oldest and most unique wine appellations, located in the province of Prato, Tuscany. Covering only the municipalities of Carmignano and Poggio a Caiano, it holds a historic distinction: the inclusion of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in its blends, a tradition dating back to the 18th century under the Medici family. The wine is primarily based on Sangiovese (minimum 50%), which provides structure and acidity, blended with 10-20% Cabernet Sauvignon/Franc, up to 20% Canaiolo Nero, and up to 10% white grapes. This blend predates the 'Super Tuscan' movement by centuries, making Carmignano a pioneer of international-style blending in Italy. Established as DOCG in 1990, the appellation covers just 39 square kilometers, making it one of Italy's smallest DOCGs. Wines require a minimum 20 months aging (8 in wood); Riserva requires 36 months (12 in oak) and can age 10-20 years.
Best for: Wine enthusiasts interested in historical blends and those seeking elegant, age-worthy Tuscan reds.
Appellations
Producers
ピアッジャ
Piaggia
Founded in the 1970s by Mauro Vannucci, Piaggia is a benchmark producer in the historic Carmignano DOCG, one of Italy's oldest appellations. Located near Florence, the estate gained international acclaim for its modern, concentrated, and elegant style. Under the leadership of Silvia Vannucci and consulting winemaker Alberto Antonini, the winery emphasizes rigorous vineyard selection and precise cellar management. Their flagship Carmignano Riserva blends Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, showcasing the region's unique tradition of incorporating French varieties, which predates the Super Tuscan movement.
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www.piaggia.com/テヌータ・ディ・カペッツァーナ
Tenuta di Capezzana
Located in the heart of Carmignano, Tenuta di Capezzana is one of Tuscany's most historic wine estates, with roots dating back to 804 AD. Owned by the Contini Bonacossi family since 1922, the estate played a pioneering role in establishing the Carmignano DOCG. They masterfully blend traditional Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon, a practice historically known as 'uva francesca.' The estate practices organic farming and sustainable agriculture, producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Montalbano hills. Their portfolio includes iconic labels like Villa di Capezzana, known for elegance, complexity, and exceptional aging potential.
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capezzana.it/
Food Pairings
Roasted red meats, game, aged pecorino cheese, and traditional Tuscan stews.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Carmignano unique compared to Chianti?
- Carmignano is unique because it has legally required the inclusion of 10-20% Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc in its Sangiovese-based blend for centuries, unlike traditional Chianti.
- Is Carmignano considered a Super Tuscan?
- While it uses international varieties, Carmignano is a traditional DOCG appellation with deep historical roots dating to the 18th century, rather than a modern 'Super Tuscan' IGT wine.
- How long does Carmignano wine need to age before release?
- Carmignano DOCG requires a minimum of 20 months' aging with at least 8 months in wood; the Riserva designation requires at least 36 months, including 12 months in oak, and can age gracefully for 10-20 years.