Toscana IGT Tenuta Tignanello Solaia 2018 Marchesi Antinori

Solaia takes its name from the vineyard of the same name, a plot of land of about 20 hectares facing south-west, on a rocky and calcareous soil: the first blend was 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, which was then replicated in 1979. In the following years a 20% Sangiovese was introduced and some changes were made in the balance between Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, up to the present blend. Solaia is only produced in exceptional vintages and was not produced in 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984 and 1992.

The 2018 harvest, fairly regular in its course, was able to give life to a Solaia of great identity and character in which the touch of each single variety remained recognizable for a wine suitable for immediate expression or ready to reserve great surprises over the years. come. Sprouting began a week earlier than the historical average of the area. Between spring and summer there were no adverse weather conditions, with good ventilation for the grapes and correct sugar and polyphenolic ripening. The harvest began in the last days of September with the Cabernet Franc, continued with the Sangiovese and ended with the Cabernet Sauvignon on 10 October.

A careful selection of the grapes in the cellar has allowed us to obtain a wine of the highest level. After separating the skins and the wine, the fermentation takes place in the traditional way and is followed by the malolactic fermentation which, in barrique, enhances the complexity and elegance of the wine before it can be aged in French oak barrels for 18 months.

Solaia 2018 has an intense ruby red color and opens to the nose with notes of black currant and blueberry which, in their fruity expression, anticipate balsamic hints of mint, dried flowers, aromatic herbs and pleasant notes of white pepper, all followed by hints of white chocolate and candied fruit. Envelops the sip in a rich, penetrating and precise way, with soft and elegant tannins. The finish is long and persistent, with considerable aging potential. It is the ideal wine for special occasions and can be used as a meditation wine.