Tignanello 2012 300cl

The 2012 Tignanello is a very handsome wine with dark fruit nuances that extend far beyond the normal spectrum for Sangiovese (and the smaller percentages of French grapes that complete this wine). This vintage, that started off with a very hot summer and ended with a cool harvest season, show a little more spice and Mediterranean herb on the finish. Grapes were harvested at the end of September and delivered slightly less alcohol than previous vintages. There is a point of freshness but the tannins are mature and yielding. In fact, the tannic management is spot-on and is complimented by the velvety and rich nature of the mouthfeel. Pretty mineral accents add a lasting touch of complexity. The 2012 Tignanello has the qualities for a successful evolution.  I had my doubts about the 2012 vintage until my visit to Antinori's Tenuta Tignanello in Chianti Classico. The wines presented -- and the 2012 Solaia in particular -- demonstrate that great wines were made in this challenging growing season that started off very hot and ended very cool. Marchesi Antinori General Manager Renzo Cotarella with the Marchese Piero Antinori walked me through a grand tasting of the wines they make in Umbria and various parts of Tuscany. When I got to spend some intimate time with the latest bottle of the extended Solaia family, I was absolutely smitten. The 2011 vintage was also a hot year and the Solaia showed less dimension. With the 2012 vintage, we are happily reunited with the range of nuances and depth of complexity that makes this one of Italy's A-list wines. The Antinori family owns various properties in the Chianti Classico area including Badia a Passignano, Tenuta Tignanello and Peppoli. They recently purchased a new property called San Sano not from from Castello di Ama in Gaiole-in-Chianti. The property has a potential for 84 hectares of vines and is located at 450 meters above sea level. The soils are very rocky with heavy deposits of Galestro and Alberese stone. The area is known for slow-ripening and very aromatic expressions of Sangiovese. I look forward to tasting more fruit from this site.

Rich and finely woven, exhibiting plum, black cherry, spice and tar aromas and flavors. Balanced and vibrant, with a long, energetic finish. Shows more elegance than power. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2017 through 2025. 2,500 cases imported. –BS