Antinori   Solaia

2004 Solaia

By Antinori

2004 Solaia by Antinori, Tuscany, Italy

The breathtakingly striking 2004 Solaia from Antinori represents a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. It is an excellent exemplar of Tuscany's world-class viticulture offerings. Born in a cooler vintage, this fine Italian wine stands out within its lineage for its balance between concentrated ripeness and refined elegance.

 

The Dance: Vintage Uniqueness and Prestigious Pedigree

Unquestionably, the Antinori family – six centuries into their winemaking journey – has deftly guided this fine wine to both time-honoured tradition and modern expression. Taking advantage of climatic conditions unique to the region and year, the 2004 Solaia showcases a sculpted structure wrapped in impeccably polished tannins, a notable counterpoint to other terroirs favoured by warmer climes.

The composition of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon marrying elegantly with 25% Sangiovese delivers a stylishly intricate dance of red cherries, crushed blackcurrants, violets and hints of minerality whisking across the fine-grained palate.

 

Investment insights: Weathering Vintage Variations

The 2004 vintage is particularly revered amongst investors for its weather patterns creating a cool yet steady growing season. This imparted an unexpected vibrancy and elegance to the 2004 Solaia, helping it to carve its own niche amongst collectors seeking investment opportunities in fine wines from Italy.

The climate that year allowed Antinori to coax charming elegance and complexity from the grapes that are often associated with warmer vintages, further underlining Antinori's enviable mastery over winemaking and the Italian terroir.

In sum, the 2004 Solaia by Antinori is a testimony to Nature's flirtation with climatic challenges, and the Antinori family's skill in manipulating her whims into curated perfection. An intelligent addition for discerning fine wine investors looking to enrich their portfolio with distinctive Italian vintages.

Market price (CAD)

$5,600.00

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

210

Scores and tasting notes

96

The thrilling 2004 Solaia (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Franc) is clearly one of the highlights of this great vintage. Endowed with massive amounts of concentration as well as structure, it is a big, powerful Solaia that does not sacrifice elegance or balance in its full-bodied personality. Packed with the essence of blackberries, chocolate, tar, smoke, cassis and menthol, this layered beauty exhibits great length and a persistent, warmly alcoholic finish. It has been stunning on the three occasions I have had it so far and is not to be missed. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2024. Importer: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA, tel. (425) 415-3738

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2007

Vintage performance