The 2004 Antinori Tignanello was the winning bottle in the April installment of Pick My Next Bottle.
The Antinori family has been in the wine producing business for 26 generations and it now one of the most successful and respected producers in Italy. The Estate is led by Marchese Piero Antinori, who is well regarded for his passionate attention to tradition and terroir as well as his interest in innovation and new ideas. Antinori originally made its reputation by producing Chianti Classico, though these days it is equally known for its Super Tuscans, Guado Al Tasso, Solaia and Tignanello. Antinori owns about 4,000 acres of vineyards and produces between 40,000 and 50,000 cases of its three Super Tuscans annually.
Decanted for two hours. 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Crimson in color. Fading to rust at the edge of the glass. 13.5% ABV. Perfumed nose of cloves, flowers, melted licorice and dark fruits. Full bodied with strong acidity. Flavors of crushed cherries, plums, menthol and spice. The finish is endless and punctuated with substantial coarse tannins. This has the stuffing to age like the 1990 that is still a beautiful wine at 25 years of age. Drink over the next 7-10 years.
My rating: 95 points.
Current vintages of Tignanello are readily available at retail for $85 or so. This is a world class wine that is fairly priced. It is also a wine that I look to buy year in and year out.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.
Beautiful review, Tom! Just what I was hoping you’d say. Very happy to hear that the 2004 Tignanello has the stuffing to age (I thought it would have that sort of stuffing but glad you confirmed that). Sounds like the 2 hour decant was helpful. Cheers!
Peter, even after 24 hours in the decanter the wine was really impressive. Definitely a long life ahead.
Wow, even after 24 hours in the decanter the 04 Tignanello was still strutting its stuff?! Yahoo! I did not suspect that an 11 year old Tignanello would be this robust. Good to hear. Thanks for your perspective, Tom!