Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello : Solaia 2016

The elegance and structure of an exceptional Super Tuscan

The property

An emblematic reference of great wines from Tuscany, in Italy and around the world, the Tenuta Tignanello of the Antinori family is located in the historical heart of the Chianti Classico area. In a charming landscape, the property is nestled in the heart of the hills between the Grève and Pesa rivers. Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello is globally renowned for its two iconic crus:  Tignanello and Solaia. These two crus are considered among the most influential wines in the history of Italian viticulture.

The vineyard

The Antinori-Tenuta Tignanello estate spreads over 319 hectares, 130 of which are dedicated to the production of great Tuscan wines. The vines are planted on marl soils dating from the Pliocene, rich in limestone and shale. The Mediterranean climate of the area is marked by significant temperature variations between night and day during the vine maturation cycle. The location and terroir of the Tenuta Tignanello vineyard are particularly suited to the cultivation of the Sangiovese grape variety. Other varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are also present.

The wine

The result of a parcel selection, Solaia is made from the sunniest part of the vineyard located on the Tignanello hill. The 20-hectare vineyard is situated at an altitude of 400 meters. The first vintage of Solaia was produced in 1978. Produced as an IGT Toscana, this exceptional Tuscan cru is only produced in great vintages.

The vintage

Late autumn and a mild, rainy winter precede a spring with clement conditions that favor early budding. The rainfall in May and the first half of June, which had no impact on the vineyard, is offset by a hot summer ensuring optimal grape development.

Vinification and aging

The grapes were destemmed and then rigorously sorted on sorting tables before undergoing gentle crushing and gravity transfer into conical vats. During fermentation and skin maceration, the perfect balance between freshness and aromatic brightness is sought. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in small barrels to develop the complexity and smoothness of the wine. An initial aging of 10 months is carried out parcel by parcel. Then the juices are blended and aged for a few months before bottling.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (73%)
Sangiovese (20%)
Cabernet Franc (7%)

Characteristics and tasting advice for the 2016 Solaia from Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello 

Tasting

Color
Intense, the color reveals a deep ruby red.

Nose
The nose combines intense fragrances of ripe black fruits (blackberry, blueberry) with balsamic notes (aromatic herbs, mint). Upon aeration, subtle notes of cocoa, spun sugar, spices, and white pepper are revealed, adding freshness and complexity.

Palate
Racy and enveloping, the palate seduces with its fine and silky tannins, its elegance, and its intense fruity expression. The finish is of beautiful persistence.