Solaia - Toscana IGT 2023
Solaia, Tuscany at its best
Tenuta Tignanello estate is in the heart of Chianti Classico, in the gently rolling hillsides between the Greve and Pesa river valleys. It extends over an area of 319 hectares (788 acres), of which 127 (313 acres) are dedicated to vines.
The estate’s two signature wines, Solaia and Tignanello, have been defined by the international press as “among the most influential wines in the history of Italian viticulture”. According to Marchesi Antinori, Solaia and Tignanello are an ongoing challenge and a never-ending passion.
The Solaia vineyard extends over an area of approximately 20 hectares (49 acres) at an altitude between 350 and 400 meters above sea level (1148-1312 feet), facing south-west, on calcareous rocky soils. The Antinori family produced this wine for the first time with the 1978 vintage. Solaia is only made in exceptional vintages and was not produced in 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984 and 1992.
The 2023 vintage :
The 2023 growing season in Chianti Classico began with a moderately cold and dry winter, particularly towards the end of March, allowing for budbreak that was in line with historical averages. From late April through the second half of June, weather conditions were generally cool and rainy, while the summer months were mostly warm, dry and without significant heat spikes, ensuring an excellent vegetative-productive balance. Moderate rainfall in August, together with a regular seasonal pattern throughout September and October, allowed the grapes to begin and complete the ripening process under optimal conditions.
Renzo Cotarella, CEO & Chief Oenologist at Antinori, is convinced it is one of the best Solaia ever produced, very close to the idea of the ideal Solaia he has in mind.
Tasting notes
Solaia 2023 is an intense ruby red color with purplish hues. On the nose, it offers aromas of ripe wild berries, with notes of blackberry, blueberry and black currant, complemented by enveloping hints of plum and fig. The bouquet is completed by delicate spicy and balsamic nuances of pepper and licorice.
The palate opens rich and vibrant. Silky, enveloping tannins support an energetic and refined midpalate, leading to a long, intense finish marked by notes of bitter cocoa and coffee.