Tuscany has a heavy and dense history and cultural identity; such that it is fiercely independent and often considered a "nation within a nation". As such, Tuscan viticultural practices have their roots deep in history. While Tuscan wines have been admired throughout history in the local Mediterranean region – as in many other regions such as California or Chile, it is with the relatively recent phenomenon of international winemaking that Tuscan wines have received critical acclaim. Unlike other regions, however, Tuscany has perfected its winemaking practices over thousands of years: viticulture is a practice deeply rooted in Tuscany. References to the quality of Tuscan wines can in fact be found in the literature of Greek writers as early as the 3rd century BC1. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Considered the quintessential Italian grape, the main grape grown in Tuscany (and indeed throughout Italy) is Sangiovese. It is a thin-skinned blue grape that produces a semi-dark purple - burgundy wine, with low aroma, fresh fruity flavors of strawberry and cherry, medium-high tannins and high acidity. Sangiovese is of Italian origin and most wineries in Tuscany carry their own clonal varieties. One of Tuscany's most famous wines, Chianti, is generally made with around 80% Sangiovese, with the addition of other grapes (generally less acidic and tannic varieties) such as Malvasia to complement the high tannins and acidity of Sangiovese. Wines made entirely from Sangiovese such as the famous Brunello di Montalcino are often quite acidic and tannic in youth; these wines are generally opened five to ten years after bottling. At that point, however, they are balanced, very high quality wines that command a high price and are held in very high regard (considered one of the best that Tuscany has to offer). Sangiovese is grown throughout Italy, but Tuscany is considered one of the best environments for its cultivation. It is suited to the sunny, warm climate of Tuscany, and the rolling hills that comprise approximately 70% of the Tuscan territory provide a delicate refreshing effect while increasing the diurnal temperature variation, which balances sugars and acidity2. The abundant limestone deposits of Tuscany are also an excellent host for the cultivation of Sangiovese. Marchesi de Frescobaldi (of the important Florentine family) writes that Sangiovese 'performs best on well-drained limestone soils on south-facing slopes'3. The majority of Tuscan wine production is red (around 80%), however Trebbiano, Italy's most popular white wine grape, can also be found in Tuscany, as can Malvasia. Vernaccia is Tuscany's only DOCG white wine, but wines from this area are highly prized. Chardonnay can also be found in Tuscany. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The neighboring Italian region of Umbria is quite similar to Tuscany; despite being separate, Umbria could be considered Tuscany's younger sister. Umbria is the only region in Italy that does not border another country or the sea. The climate is quite similar to that of Tuscany, but without the coastal element. Umbria is famous for its hilltop villages, universities and agriculture. Umbria's wine production is about 1/3 that of Tuscany, and unlike Tuscany, Umbria produces more white wine than red, although not by a large margin (60% white, 40% red). While Umbria is best known.