Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello : Solaia 2011

The richness and roundness of an iconic Tuscan wine

The estate

An emblematic name among great Tuscan wines, in Italy and the world, Tenuta Tignanello from the Antinori family is located in the historic heart of the Chianti Classico region. The estate is placed in an enchanting landscape in the hills and between the rivers Grève and Pesa.  Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello is world-renowned for its two iconic wines, Tignanello and Solaia, considered to be among the most influential wines in the history of Italian viticulture.

The vineyard

The Tenuta Tignanello estate stretches across 319 hectares, of which 130 are dedicated to the production of wines. The vines are planted on marly soils dating back to the Pliocene era, rich in limestone and schist. The Mediterranean climate in the region is characterised by significant temperature variations between night and day during the ripening cycle of the vines. The location and terroir of this illustrious Tuscan vineyard are particularly suited to the cultivation of the Sangiovese grape. Other varieties are grown, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

The wine

Solaia is an IGT Toscana wine made from the sunniest part of the vineyard on the hillside of Tignanello and the result of a plot selection. The first vintage of Solaia was produced in 1978. This exceptional Tuscan wine is only produced in the great vintages.

The vintage

The year 2011 in Tuscany was particularly hot and dry, producing a generous and rich vintage. After a cold and snowy winter, the beginning of spring was extremely mild. The warmth of the first days of April allowed for an early budburst, ten days ahead of schedule. The mild temperatures and little rainfall in May and June slowed down the growth cycle, which was not restarted until the beginning of July. Temperatures then rose until the last days of September, leading to a gradual ripening of the grapes. The alternation between warm days and cool nights during the last ten days of September allowed the ripening to be refined and guaranteed a good harvest.

Winemaking and ageing

Alcoholic fermentation in conical vats, then complete malolactic fermentation is small oak casks. Plot-based vinification. The wine was aged for a total of 14 months, initially in batches and then together following blending.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (75%),
Sangiovese (20%),
Cabernet Franc (5%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Solaia 2011 from Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello

Tasting

Colour
The wine has an intense ruby red colour.

Nose
The nose develops with intensity warm scents while conserving a delicate freshness.

Palate
Rich and enveloping, the palate has a beautifully complex structure. Notes of ripe red fruit, spices and flowers mingle softly with dense and supple tannins to an expressive and lingering finish.