Passion through evolution. To render modern and unique that which is born from deep and rooted traditions. This is the Antinori mission.
In the Chianti Classico appellation, a place where Sangiovese, long grown alongside international varietals, has forged a symbiotic relationship that today seems inextricable to the land.
Human sensibility adds its contribution to the fundamental elements of this terroir and transforms that which nature provides into the vintners art.
Recently, we graced the table with the epitome of this mission; and from the estate of the same name, we uncorked Tignanello – a groundbreaking achievement in Tuscan wine.
~ Vineyards on the Tignanello Estate ~ |
The 2001 Tignanello is a magical blend of Sangiovese (80%) Cabernet Sauvignon (15%) and Cabernet Franc, (5%). The resulting wine is pure Tuscany. It speaks to the very essence of the image you see above. Soulfoul. Pristine. Elegant, but with a rustic purpose.
Decanted for 2 hours before dinner, the wine is a striking deep garnet color. Only a careful observer will note the lightening toward the edges of the bowl. The nose is what lovers of Sangiovese seek. Worn comfortable leather, dusty clay roads, wild Tuscan flowers, tobacco, sage and wild red berries permeate the air surrounding the glass. Confidence without arrogance, though one could hardly blame the wine for the latter. Precision, balance and near perfect concentration envelop the tactile senses of the taster. Smokey meat, wild berries, anise, pipe tobacco, espresso bean….they glide effortlessly, in perfect lockstep with palate cleansing acidity and tannins that have mostly resolved and formed myriad versions of silt and mud left behind in the bottle.
You can see, smell and taste Tuscany through this vinous looking glass. Observe carefully and you may lose yourself in a stream of consciousness that abates only when you return for another sip. 96 points. About $40 upon release. Current vintages sell for approximately $65-$75.
~ Tignanello ~ |
E vero!
February 17, 2014
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