Antinori Solaia

Wine information: Solaia is a vineyard of about 10 hectares in size, with a south-west exposure, located near the Tignanello Estate at an altitude of between 350 and 400 meters above sea level. It is situated on rocky calcareous soil which contains limestone rocks. Marchesi Antinori's first vintage of this wine was that of 1978; the original varietal composition consisted of 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc, and this blend was used again in the 1979 vintage. In the following years 20% sangiovese was added, and the ratio of cabernet sauvignon to cabernet franc was modified, thereby arriving at the current varietal blend. Solaia is produced only in exceptional vintages and was not made in 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984, and 1992. The 1999 is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 20% Sangiovese. The grapes from the Solaia vineyard, which are as always severely selected, were among the last to be harvested (starting September 25 for the Cabernets, and the Sangiovese a week later). The grapes were vinified separately and new methods were used which guarantee a very soft processing. Maceration took place in 50 hectoliter open wooden fermentors with periodic cap submersion for better extraction of colour, complexity and tannins. During this time (15 days for the Sangiovese and 20 days for the Cabernets), the wine completed its alcoholic fermentation at a temperature never exceeding 30°C. The wine was then transferred into 225 liter French oak barrels (new Troncais and Alliers), where malolactic fermentation was terminated by the year's end. The wines were then racked, blended and then returned to the barriques for about 14 months aging, after which time they were bottled and aged for a further 12 months before release.

Tasting Notes: Intensely fruity and complex with a good structure, well-balanced, with soft tannins and a lingering finish. Displays unmistakable varietal flavor while retaining strong regional character.

Reviews: "Dark in color, with intense aromas of blackberries and fresh herbs, such as basil, with a hint of eucalyptus. Full-bodied, with extremely well-polished tannins and a long, long finish. A tight and racy young wine that needs time to come into its own. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese." 94 Points, Wine Spectator

 
     

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