Viniou Reviews
Antinori Tignanello is an iconic Italian red wine, renowned for its role in redefining the expectations of Tuscan wines. Predominantly crafted from Sangiovese, with small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, Tignanello is celebrated as one of the original Super Tuscans. Though the precise vintage is unspecified here, the cuvée typically embodies a deep ruby hue and a complex aromatic profile, offering vibrant notes of ripe cherries, red plum, Mediterranean herbs, spices, and subtle hints of tobacco and balsam. Its vinification process includes fermentation in small oak barrels followed by ageing in French and Hungarian oak, providing the wine with refined tannins and a beautifully integrated structure.
Produced in the heart of Tuscany, the Tignanello estate sits on the gently rolling hills between the Greve and Pesa river valleys. The region enjoys a quintessentially Mediterranean climate, marked by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The soils here are particularly favourable, composed of a blend of limestone, shale, and clay — a combination that encourages the vines to develop deep roots and ultimately to yield fruit of remarkable concentration and finesse. Tuscany has a storied winemaking heritage, dating back to Etruscan times, and is internationally famed both for its dedication to tradition and its spirit of innovation as seen with wines like Tignanello.
In terms of food pairing, the Antinori Tignanello shines alongside rich and flavourful dishes. Consider traditional Tuscan options such as bistecca alla fiorentina or wild boar ragù with pappardelle. The wine’s structure and aromatic complexity also make it an excellent match for roasted lamb, grilled venison, and aged pecorino cheese. For a more international approach, savour it with herb-crusted beef, mushroom risotto or dishes featuring truffles.
To truly appreciate the depth and elegance of Tignanello, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. A decanting time of one to two hours will further enhance its intricate bouquet and soften its tannins, allowing all the expressive qualities of this exceptional wine to unfold.
