Wines Unspecified Tenuta Tignanello - Solaia - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Tenuta Tignanello's Solaia 2017 is one of Italy's most iconic Super Tuscan wines, a masterful blend primarily consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Harvested from the sun-drenched hillside vineyards of the Antinori estate, the 2017 vintage reflects a particularly warm and challenging year, which translated into intensely concentrated grapes, smaller yields, and an exquisitely expressive wine. Vinification includes meticulous berry selection, fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, and careful maturation in new French oak barriques for around 18 months, followed by further refinement in bottle. The result is a deeply coloured, full-bodied red, offering complexity and remarkable structure. Expect aromas of dark berries, cassis, and black cherries, interwoven with notes of tobacco, chocolate, cedar, and Mediterranean herbs.

Produced in Tuscany, a region synonymous with elegance and tradition, Solaia benefits from a temperate climate influenced by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The estate’s vineyards, perched between 350 and 400 metres above sea level, rest on soils rich in limestone, marl, and schist, yielding wines that combine power and finesse. Tuscany’s winemaking heritage is centuries-old, rooted in small holdings and a dedication to quality, yet over recent decades, producers like Antinori have revolutionised the scene by creatively blending international varieties with indigenous grapes. Solaia has been a benchmark Super Tuscan since its debut vintage, epitomising this philosophy.

Given Solaia’s stature, complex aromatics and supple yet firm tannins, it pairs beautifully with rich, flavoursome dishes. Consider classic Tuscan fare such as bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), slow-cooked wild boar ragu over pappardelle, or aged pecorino cheese. International pairings such as roast rack of lamb with Mediterranean herbs, prime rib, or game birds in red wine sauce also complement its depth and structure.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least an hour prior to serving, which allows full expression of its bouquet. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This wine possesses excellent ageing potential but can already be appreciated for its vibrant fruit, harmonious oak integration, and lasting finish.