Raise a glass to 300 years of Chianti Classico with these picks

Three hundred years ago, Cosimo lll de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, officially identified and outlined the boundaries of the Chianti region, acknowledging it as a top quality place for viticulture.

To celebrate the 300th anniversary of the region, producers, journalists and other members of the wine trade, including On The Coast Master of Wine Barbara Philip,met in Florence to raise a glass.

She told On The Coast host Stephen Quinn that "Chianti Classico is one of the most historic, great wines of the world," and she has some picks for those who want to experience the region themselves.

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Fontodi Chianti Classico. 2013. $32.99

"This outstanding Chianti is made from organic Sangiovese grapes grown near the town of Panzano. It is concentrated and pure at the same time with ripe cherry aromas, black pepper, dried flowers and a subtle toastiness from spending 18 months aging in barrel."

Cecchi Chianti Classico. 2014. $18.49

"Pure cherry and red fruits mark this medium-bodied Chianti Classico which is great value and is perfect for grilled steak."

Ricasoli "Brolio" Chianti Classico. 2013. $27.99

"The Ricasoli family can trace its roots in the Chianti region back to the 12th Century and has had a huge influence on the quality and style of the modern wines. The Brolio is a well-loved classic in British Columbia and has proven it will gain complexity and finesse with 10-plusyears in the cellar."

Vicchiomaggio "La Prima" Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. 2011. $52.99

"The 'La Prima' bears the recent, highest quality designation of 'Gran Selezione' in Chianti Classico. It comes from a small, 2.2-hectare plot and is a blend of 90 per cent Sangiovese and 10 per cent Merlot. Look for great finesse in this wine with dried cherries, smoke, fresh earth and violets."

With files from CBC Radio One's On The Coast