Chianti Classico Celebrates 100 Years: Presidential Event with Mattarella and Exclusive Tasting in Rome

Posted by Rowena Dumlao Rowena Dumlao - Giardina 10/21/2024

Chianti Classico Celebrates 100 Years: Presidential Event with Mattarella and Exclusive Tasting in Rome

The Chianti Classico Wine Consortium, Italy’s oldest wine consortium, marked its 100th anniversary with an extraordinary day of celebrations in Rome. In a symbolic and prestigious encounter, Giovanni Manetti, President of the Consortium, was received by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace, the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. This meeting highlighted the historical significance of the Consortium and the role it has played in promoting Chianti Classico over the last century.

Manetti’s visit to the Quirinale was the highlight of a series of events dedicated to celebrating the Consortium’s centenary. During the meeting, Manetti presented President Mattarella with a specially curated gift: the Consortium's book “On the Tracks of the Black Rooster,” along with three bottles of Chianti Classico from 1983, 2015, and 2022, representing pivotal moments in Mattarella’s career and Italy’s history.

The dedication inscribed on the gift emphasized the Consortium’s gratitude: “On the Centenary of the establishment of the Chianti Classico Wine Consortium, the Gallo Nero producers thank the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, by celebrating a life dedicated to serving our country through the harvests of three significant years.”

Celebrating 100 years, the Chianti Classico Wine Consortium, known for its iconic "Gallo Nero", launches a Sustainability Manifesto to guide the region into the next century, championing environmental responsibility and the preservation of Chianti’s unique identity.

Founded on May 14, 1924, by 33 pioneering winemakers, the Consortium now represents 500 producers, celebrating its heritage while looking to the future. A special book titled "On the Trail of the Black Rooster" explores the Consortium’s rich history and enduring legacy.

A Day of Celebrations in Rome

The centenary celebrations continued at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria with the 43rd edition of the Wine and Oil Culture Forum, in collaboration with the Fondazione Italiana Sommeler (FIS). The event celebrated Chianti Classico’s 100-year legacy, bringing together key figures from the wine world, including industry experts, winemakers, and government officials.

Italy’s Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forestry, Francesco Lollobrigida, praised the Consortium's role in promoting Made in Italy products globally, protecting Italian agriculture from both cultural and economic perspectives.

The Forum: Tradition Meets Vision

The day featured a forum exploring the rich history and future prospects of the Consortium, with participants like Giuseppe Mazzocolin and Angela Fronti sharing insights. Discussions focused on sustainability, respect for the land, and the role of unity and collaboration among producers.

The Tastings: A Showcase of Excellence

The celebrations concluded with a grand walk-around tasting featuring seventy-three Chianti Classico wineries, allowing guests to explore the diversity and quality of the region's wines. Specialized seminars highlighted the Gallo Nero DOP olive oil and celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, reinforcing the Consortium’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation.