TENUTA TIGNANELLO 'Tignanello' by Antinori - IGT Toscana 2016 Bottle

Description

Tenuta Tignanello’s 2016 vintage is a landmark release for what is arguably Italy’s most famous Super Tuscan. Produced by the historic Antinori family, this wine was a true pioneer when it was first created. It was the first Sangiovese based wine to be aged in small oak barrels and one of the first reds in the Chianti Classico region to move away from using white grapes in the blend.

The 2016 growing season in Tuscany was near perfect, and that shows in the incredible poise and precision of this wine. It is a soulful blend of Sangiovese with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, all grown in the rocky limestone rich soils of the Tignanello vineyard. On the nose, it is wonderfully complex, offering a layered bouquet of ripe red cherries, blackberries, and wild violets, underpinned by sophisticated notes of tobacco leaf, cedarwood, and a hint of dark chocolate.

On the palate, it is a brilliant example of elegance. While it has plenty of power and concentration, it never feels heavy. The tannins are remarkably silky and fine grained, providing a seamless structure that supports the vibrant fruit. There is a fresh streak of acidity that keeps the wine feeling energetic, leading into a finish that seems to go on forever. It is an honest and deeply expressive red that captures the very essence of the Tuscan hills.

This vintage has been met with universal acclaim from the world’s leading critics. Monica Larner for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded it a stellar 97 points, praising its "rock solid" pedigree. Antonio Galloni of Vinous gave it a massive 98 points, noting its exceptional depth and complexity, while James Suckling and Wine Spectator both scored it 97 points. While it is drinking beautifully now, it has the stamina to evolve in the cellar for decades to come.