Super Tuscan Wines

The term Super Tuscan refers to a red blend from Tuscany which is made from international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot instead of native Italian grapes like Sangiovese. The first Super Tuscan red wines began to appear in the 1970s, including the two most famous names, Tignanello and Sassicaia, as local winemakers experimented with these other grape varieties. Today Super Tuscan wines tend to be bold and powerful red wines which are capable of ageing for many decades in the cellar.

Key Super Tuscan Regions

Within Tuscany the Bolgheri sub-region close to the coast is particularly important for Super Tuscan wines. This is where both Sassicaia and Antinori, the winery that produces Tignanello, are located. The region was granted its own official appellation in 1994 with rules that state the wine can contain up to 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Cabernet Franc. There are now more than 50 Super Tuscan wineries in the Bolgheri appellation.

Super Tuscan Food Pairings

Thanks to their robust and intense flavour profile, Super Tuscan wines are best paired with hearty dishes like the classic local wild boar stew or bistecca alla fiorentina. Other good matches include hard aged cheeses like Pecorino Toscano or a generous platter of Italian charcuterie.