Chianti

Named for the Chianti region on Tuscany, Italy, this sturdy, dry red wine was once instantly recognizable by its squat, straw-covered bottles (fiaschi). However, Chianti -- particularly the better brands -- is now more often found in the traditional Bordeaux-type bottle. Only a few vintners use the straw-based bottle, which today usually designates a cheaper (and often inferior) product. In Italy, Chianti has long been made from 4 or 5 grape varieties, Trebbiano and Malvasia being 2 of them. Today the cabernet sauvignon grape is being added to some Chianti blends.