Antinori - Tenuta Tignanello : Marchese Antinori Riserva 2018

An aromatic and structured great Tuscan wine

The estate

An iconic reference point for the fine Tuscan wines, in Italy and around the world, the Antinori family's Tenuta Tignanello is located in the historic heart of the Chianti Classico area. Surrounded by an enchanting landscape, the estate is located in the heart of the hills between the Greve and Pesa rivers. Tenuta Tignanello is internationally renowned for its two iconic wines: Tignanello and Solaia. These two wines are considered to be among the most influential Tuscan wines in the history of Italian viticulture.

The vineyard

The 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 back to the Pliocene era, rich in limestone and schist. The area’s Mediterranean climate is marked by significant temperature variations between night and day during the growth cycle of the vines. The Tenuta Tignanello vineyard’s location and terroir are ideal for the cultivation of the Sangiovese grape. Other varieties are grown, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

The vintage

The winter conditions, considered in the average in terms of both temperature and rainfall, advanced the early development of the vines. While spring saw significant rainfall and average temperatures, especially in May, hot and dry weather was recorded in June and July. The few rainy episodes in August as well as the dry and windy weather in September and October enabled the gradual and even ripening of the vineyard.

The vinification and ageing

The grapes were destemmed and then rigorously sorted on sorting tables before being delicately crushed and transferred into tanks, using gravity. Alcoholic fermentation lasts approximately one week. Skin maceration with gentle pumping over and unballasting in order to ensure an optimal extraction while preserving the elegance and softness of the tannins. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation was completed at the end of the year. After blending, the juices were transferred to French and Hungarian oak barrels for approximately one year. After bottling, the wine was aged for a further year before being released onto the market.

Blend

Sangiovese
Cabernet

Antinori-Tenuta Tignanello's Marchesi Antinori Riserva 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

Tasting

Colour
The colour is a beautiful ruby red.

Nose
The nose blends intense morello cherry, spice, tobacco and leather with floral (violets, lavender) and iron notes, a typical characteristic of the Sangiovese grape variety. After airing, the bouquet grows in complexity, expressing notes of vanilla and cocoa powder.

Palate
Full and generous, this wine delights due to its vivacity and tannic structure. The finish is lasting and exudes delicious scents of red fruits and liquorice.