Tignanello is the wine that paved the way for the Supertuscans. In 1971 Antinori decided to treat Sangiovese in a new way: barrique ageing, no white grapes (then compulsory in Chianti) and, from 1975, a share of Cabernet. By stepping outside the appellation rules, it created a model copied all over Tuscany.
The Tignanello vineyard lies on the Santa Cristina estate in Chianti Classico, on limestone soils rich in galestro and alberese, between 350 and 400 metres. The same slopes also give Solaia and the house's other historic wines.
2006 is one of the great Tuscan vintages of the decade. After almost twenty years the wine is mature and harmonious: ripe cherry, tobacco, leather, spice and now-smooth tannins. One to open for a special occasion.
At a glance: Sangiovese 80%, Cabernet Sauvignon 15%, Cabernet Franc 5% · 14% ABV · 0.75 l · Antinori, Chianti Classico