Chianti Riserva DOCG is a Chianti that is more susceptible to aging well and is allowed to bottle age for at least three years before consumption
The main differences between Chanti and Chianti Riserva is that, when bottled for consumption, Chianti must have an alcohol percentage of at least 11,5% and a a minimum of 3 month aging, while Chianti Riserva must have an alcohol percentage of at least 12% and a minimum of 24 month aging (with at least 3 months of aging in bottle).
The Chianti Classico, to be labelled as Chianti Classico Riserva, must have an alcohol percentage of at least 12,5%.
When a bottle of Chianti Classico Riserva is labeled togheter with a symbol of ‘Gallo Nero’ (black rooster on a gold background) signifies that the wine is DOCG approved and indeed grown in a very specific region within Chianti.