Marchesi Antinori Tignanello 2021 Toscana IGT – the iconic Super Tuscan celebrating its 50th anniversary in this exceptional vintage. Pioneered in 1971 as the first Sangiovese aged in small oak barrels and blended with Cabernet varieties (no white grapes), Tignanello hails from the historic Tenuta Tignanello in Chianti Classico. The 2021 vintage, hailed as one of the greatest ever, benefited from a long, balanced season with cool nights preserving freshness amid hot, dry summer conditions, yielding power, finesse, and remarkable elegance.

Blend: Approximately 79% Sangiovese, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc (variations reported; official sources confirm Sangiovese-dominant with Cabernet additions). Aged ~15 months in French (mostly new) and some Hungarian oak barrels, followed by 12+ months in bottle. ABV 14.5%.

Tasting: Ruby red with intense purple hues. Complex nose of ripe plums, blackberries, candied orange peel, dark chocolate, caramel, licorice, and sweet tobacco. Palate is rich, sophisticated, and full-bodied with velvety, vibrant tannins, bright acidity, layers of dark fruit, spice, graphite, cedar, and herbal notes, leading to a long, persistent, harmonious finish. Critics rave: Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 98 ("silky and polished... modern benchmark"), Vinous 98 (#8 Top 100 2024), Wine Spectator 97 (#3 Top 100 2024), James Suckling 96. A collector's gem with ageing potential to 2040+. Pairs with grilled meats, game, aged cheeses, or hearty Tuscan dishes.