Toscana IGT Tignanello 2021 Marchesi Antinori

What kind of wine is it

Tignanello by Antinori is a Tuscan red wine made from Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. This blend stands out for its structure and complexity, offering an intense aromatic profile with remarkable potential for bottle aging. The winemaking process includes fermentation in truncated cone-shaped vats at controlled temperatures, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrels and barriques of French and Hungarian oak. Around fifteen months of aging in wood create a balance between elegance and power.

Where it comes from

The wine is born at the Tenuta Tignanello, between the Greve and Pesa valleys, in the heart of Chianti Classico. The soils, rich in limestone and marine-origin schist, give the wine a pronounced mineral freshness and solid structure. The microclimate, with warm days and cool nights, allows a slow and even ripening of the grapes. The vineyards, historically planted and owned by the Antinori family since the 19th century, benefit from optimal exposure and natural ventilation.

How it is produced

The grapes are harvested between late September and mid-October, with a careful selection in the vineyard and winery. Fermentation takes place in truncated cone-shaped stainless steel vats, with temperature control and attentive management of macerations to extract color and tannins. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrels and new French and Hungarian oak barriques, where it is aged for about fifteen months. The different batches are blended to create the final blend, which then rests in bottle before release.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows an intense ruby red color with violet hues. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of ripe red fruits like plum and blackberry, enriched with notes of candied orange, dark chocolate, and caramel. Hints of sweet tobacco and licorice add depth. On the palate, it is full-bodied and enveloping, with soft yet vibrant tannins, supported by a freshness that balances the structure. The finish is long and persistent, with delicate minerality and echoes of sweet spices.

Food pairings

The complex structure of Tignanello makes it ideal for roast red meats, game, and aged cheeses. It pairs well with pappardelle with wild boar, truffle and mushroom risotto, as well as braised dishes. For a regional pairing, it is excellent with classic Chianti-style pici all'aglione or with Piedmont-style braised beef. Its versatility suits rich and flavorful dishes.

When to serve it

Tignanello is made for medium to long aging and reaches its peak after several years of bottle maturation. It is enjoyable when young, within five years, but develops greater complexity if stored for up to ten to fifteen years. The optimal tasting window allows you to appreciate the harmony between its aromatic and tannic components, offering a complete experience for both enthusiasts and collectors.