2016 Tignanello
By Antinori
2016 Tignanello from Antinori, Italy
When one encounters the 2016 Tignanello from stalwart Italian producer, Antinori, one cannot help but be swept away by the sheer elegance of this fine wine. A tapestry of grapes gracefully weaves together to paint a rich and vibrant picture only seen in the best vintages of Super-Tuscan offerings.
A stellar vintage from a top-notch producer
Let's consider the climatic conditions, which left an indelible footprint on the character of this 2016 Tignanello. 2016 was an exceptional year for Antinori, met with the fine balance of seasonal temperatures, a merciful winter accompanied by a mild spring and an acceptably hot summer that enabled the grapes to ripen optimally, yielding superb vintages of well-structured, complex wines.
The 2016 Tignanello, predominantly Sangiovese with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, encapsulates all these noble characteristics in its broad-stroked, majestic sweep.
Sensational attributes set it apart
The transitory interplay between blackberries, red cherries, fresh-cut Mediterranean herbs and whispers of tobacco is marvellously cohesive and reveals an impressive depth and profundity. The tannins are lithely sculpted yet firm suggesting longevity that will offer an additional dimension to bottle-aged expressions.
The pleasing tension between the juicy fruit core and fresh acidity imparts a delightful thrill on the palate - a bacon-covered cherry tart in front of a roaring oak fire. This is indeed what distinguishes the 2016 Tignanello from other vintages.
The 2016 Tignanello from Antinori, as a fine wine from Italy, not only marks an excellent opportunity for wine investment but also promises a tantalizing journey for the palate. Moments of anticipation create memories beyond the monotonous, and this brilliant exemplar of a Super Tuscan indeed leaves us with an enriching experience that borders on transcendental.
Each sip reveals a new layer in the labyrinth of flavors - here's a wine that truly captures the spirit of 2016 through the lens of one of Italy's most respected wine producers.
Market price (HKD)
HK$14,450.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
88.82
Scores and tasting notes
To hit the market in June, the 2016 Tignanello is a rock-solid wine and a stunning beauty. The wine offers an impeccable level of precision and laser-focus delivery of fruits, spices, tilled earth, espresso beans and Mediterranean herbs. This vintage follows the classic blending formula of 80% Sangiovese with about 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc. The vines are now 15 to 20 years old. Compared to the 2015 vintage that ultimately appeared more chewy and succulent, this expression from the iconic 2016 vintage is more vibrant, nervous and jazzed. It shows more savory spice, saltiness and minerality, with a beautifully integrated quality of tannins. Some 320,000 bottles were produced. This wine is at the top of the list of some of the best Tignanello ever made, including the vintages 2007, 2009, 2010, 2013 and 2015.
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 31 May 2019