Solaia Toscana IGT 2016 Marchesi Antinori Winery

Solaia 2016: An Extraordinary Vintage

Solaia 2016 represents the excellence of Tuscan wines, produced by the renowned Antinori family in the heart of Chianti Classico. This vintage, characterized by a favorable climatic trend, gave rise to a wine of rare elegance and complexity. The care in every phase of production, from the harvest to the winemaking, has allowed us to enhance the unique characteristics of the terroir and the varieties of grapes used, making Solaia 2016 a true symbol of the Tuscan winemaking tradition.

The climate of 2016: A Perfect Balance

The 2016 vintage was marked by balanced climatic conditions. After a mild autumn and winter, spring began with favorable temperatures, bringing budbreak forward by about ten days compared to the historical average. The rains in May and June did not negatively affect the crucial flowering and fruit setting phases. The summer was dry, without excessive peaks of heat, thus guaranteeing a perfect vegetative-productive balance and ideal growth of the grapes. The harvest, which began in the last week of September for Sangiovese and continued with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, was favored by ideal conditions, with alternating sun and short rains which contributed to an optimal ripening process.

Careful and Refined Winemaking

The 2016 harvest was characterized by healthy and well-ripe grapes. The harvest was carried out with extreme attention both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Here, the grapes were carefully selected on the sorting table before being delicately pressed. During fermentation in truncated cone tanks, maximum care was taken to preserve the freshness and aromas of the grapes. Subsequently, the malolactic fermentation in barrique contributed to enhancing the complexity and softness of the wine. The refinement, in new French oak barrels for approximately 18 months, allowed Solaia 2016 to reach its maximum expression. After an initial separate aging period for each batch, the wines were assembled to complete the evolution in wood, giving the final product its unique character.

A Historic Vineyard and a Unique Blend

Solaia comes from a 20-hectare vineyard located at Tenuta Tignanello, facing south-west between 350 and 400 meters above sea level. The rocky and limestone soil, rich in alberese and marl, gives the wine its unmistakable minerality. The Antinori family began producing Solaia in 1978, and over the years the composition of the blend has been perfected, introducing a percentage of Sangiovese alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Solaia is produced only in years considered exceptional, making each bottle a true oenological treasure.

Tasting Notes: A Sensory Experience

Solaia 2016 has an intense ruby ​​red color . On the nose it releases a rich and complex bouquet, with notes of ripe dark fruit, in particular blackberry and blueberry, accompanied by balsamic accents of aromatic herbs and mint. The sweet hints of cocoa and cotton candy alternate with spicy nuances of white pepper, giving the wine freshness and depth. On the palate, it is rich and enveloping, with soft and silky tannins that enhance its elegance. The finish is vibrant, long and persistent, revealing a notable aging potential.

Awards and Recognitions

Solaia 2016 has conquered the palates of the most demanding critics, obtaining exceptional ratings. Wine Advocate and James Suckling gave it a perfect score of 100/100, while Galloni gave it 99/100 and Wine Spectator 98/100. In Italy, Gambero Rosso has awarded him the prestigious Tre Bicchieri. These awards confirm the excellence of Solaia and its leading role in the world wine scene.

Conclusions

Solaia 2016 is a wine that embodies the balance and majesty of Chianti Classico . Its elegant structure, complex aromatic bouquet and aging potential make it a collector's wine. Perfect for special occasions and for those who want to savor an authentic expression of the Tuscan terroir, Solaia 2016 is destined to become a timeless icon.