Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello : Solaia 2018

An exceptional vintage magnifying the elegance and richness of an iconic Tuscan wine

The property

An emblematic reference of the great wines of Tuscany, in Italy and around the world, the Tenuta Tignanello of the Antinori family is located in the historical heart of the Chianti Classico zone. In an enchanting landscape, the property is nestled in the heart of the hills between the Grève and Pesa rivers. 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 spans 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 this Chianti Classico 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

Resulting from a parcel selection, Solaia is made from the sunniest part of the vineyard located on the Tignanello hill. The first vintage of Solaia was born in 1978. Produced in IGT Toscana, this exceptional Tuscan cru is only produced during great vintages.

The vintage

2018 is an exceptional vintage. A cool spring punctuated by some rains precedes a summer marked by high temperatures, especially in June and July. The rainy episodes as well as the dry and windy conditions of September and October were beneficial for the vineyard, ensuring a progressive and optimal maturation of the berries. The fully ripe grapes give birth to a harmonious, balanced and highly elegant wine that is the perfect expression of Solaia's identity and character.

Vinification and aging

The grapes were destemmed and then rigorously sorted on sorting tables before undergoing gentle crushing and gravity transfer to vats. During fermentation and skin maceration, the perfect balance between fruit and tannin quality is sought to magnify the softness, fragrance, identity and character of Solaia. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in barrels to develop the complexity and softness of the wine. Solaia 2018 benefits from separate aging of each of the lots in new French oak barrels for about 18 months.

Blend

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

Characteristics and tasting advice for the 2018 Solaia from Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello

Tasting

Color
The color is an intense ruby red.

Nose
The nose combines intense fruity fragrances (black and ripe fruits, blackcurrant) and floral (blueberries, dried flowers, lavender) with spicy notes of white pepper and balsamic (mint, eucalyptus). Particularly soft, the bouquet gradually reveals perfectly integrated aromas of white chocolate, cotton candy and dried fruits.

Palate
Ample and creamy, the palate seduces with the elegance of its soft and silky tannins, its length and its licorice flavors. Persistent and aromatic, the finish echoes the floral and spicy notes perceived on the nose.