TENUTA TIGNANELLO 'Tignanello' by Antinori - IGT Toscana 2012 Bottle

Description

Tignanello 2012 is a remarkable wine that exemplifies the essence of Tuscany and the Super Tuscan movement. Vinous rates it 95 points, praising its deep, rich, and voluptuous character while retaining classicism in its focused structure. The aromas of dark red cherry, pomegranate, and kirsch with hints of spice and tobacco unfold gradually. Wine Enthusiast also gives it 94 points, noting its finesse with alluring scents of blue flowers, red berries, and baking spices, complemented by a vibrant palate of black cherry and licorice. The Wine Advocate scores it 93 points, highlighting the wine's balanced tannins and fresh acidity. This age-worthy Tignanello is ideal for cellaring, promising an exquisite tasting experience as it continues to evolve.

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Tignanello was a milestone in Tuscany and is one of the most iconic wines to come out of Italy. It was the first Sangiovese to be aged in barriques, the first contemporary red wine blended with untraditional varieties (specifically Cabernet) and one of the first red wines in the Chianti Classico region that didn’t use white grapes. It’s produced with a selection of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc and considered one of the best of all the Super-Tuscan wines and certainly one of the most sought after.

VINOUS 95 points
The 2012 Tignanello is deep, rich and voluptuous, yet also retains a distinct element of classicism in its focused, mid-weight structure. Dark red cherry, pomegranate, kirsch, spice, tobacco and menthol open up in the glass, but only reluctantly. Firm veins of tannin and pulsating acidity give the wine its sense of energy and verticality. The mid-weight structure should allow the wine to open up in another few years. The 2012 isn't as powerful as the 2010 or exotic as the 2011, but rather is most similar to how the 2005 was in its youth. The 2012 is a Tignanello built on pure finesse and grace. I would not open a bottle before its tenth birthday, if at all possible. - Antonio Galloni

WINE ENTHUSIAST 94 points
Here's a structured red with lots of finesse. It opens with alluring aromas of fragrant blue flowers, red berries, baking spices and exotic herbs while the firm, vibrant palate delivers black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove, orange zest, licorice and a sprinkling of white pepper. It's still young but well balanced, with tightly woven but polished tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2017–2024. — Kerin O’Keefe

THE WINE ADVOCATE 93 points
Drink Date: 2016 - 2030
The 2012 Tignanello is a very handsome wine with dark fruit nuances that extend far beyond the normal spectrum for Sangiovese (and the smaller percentages of French grapes that complete this wine). This vintage, that started off with a very hot summer and ended with a cool harvest season, show a little more spice and Mediterranean herb on the finish. Grapes were harvested at the end of September and delivered slightly less alcohol than previous vintages. There is a point of freshness but the tannins are mature and yielding. In fact, the tannic management is spot-on and is complimented by the velvety and rich nature of the mouthfeel. Pretty mineral accents add a lasting touch of complexity. The 2012 Tignanello has the qualities for a successful evolution. - Monica Larner

JAMES SUCKLING 96 points
Aromas of blackcurrants and blueberries with hints of lavender and violets. Full body, chewy and polished tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A beautifully linear and polished red. Give it time to show it all but this is already a beauty. The depth and class to this are indeed impressive. Better in 2017.