Superiore

Superiore meaning on Italian wine labels

Superiore is an additional term authorized by the production specification of particular Italian denominations, not a single nationwide tier with one fixed set of rules. Depending on the denomination, it may involve higher minimum alcohol, lower yields, aging requirements, or other conditions. Chianti Superiore is an authorized type within the separate Chianti denomination. Chianti Classico is a distinct denomination whose types are Annata, Riserva, and Gran Selezione; its production specification expressly prohibits adding superiore to the designation. The term should therefore always be interpreted in the context of the complete denomination named on the label rather than assumed to sit at a universal level below Riserva.

Sources: official Chianti Classico wine types; Chianti Classico production specification; Chianti PDO specification documenting Chianti Superiore.