Chianti Riserva is a Chianti wine that has been aged longer in wood and in the cellar. The exact aging period differs with the specific Chianti zone (there are seven in total, along with Chianti Classico). A typical release period for a Chianti Riserva is two years after the harvest ( a non-Riserva can be released as early as six to eight months after harvest).

Asa Riserva is aged longer in wood, a producer will make certain that a Riserva is a "better" wine than his Chianti normale; in other words, a richer, more complex Chianti, one that can drink well for five to seven years or more.

A Chianti Riserva can stand up to richer foods than a Chianti normale; pair with rich red meats, game and aged cheeses.