Solaia 2018 IGT Tuscany
Historical data
Solaia is a vineyard of about 20 hectares facing south-west between 350 and 400 metres above sea level on rocky limestone soil with alberese and galestro rock, located at Tenuta Tignanello. The Antinori family first produced this wine with the 1978 vintage; the initial blend was 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, which was repeated in 1979. In subsequent vintages, 20% Sangiovese was introduced and some corrections were made in the ratio of Cabernet Sauvignon to Cabernet Franc, leading to the current composition. Solaia is only produced in exceptional vintages and was not made in 1980, 1981, 1983,1984 and 1992.
Tasting notes
Solaia 2018 is an intense ruby red colour. On the nose, intense notes of ripe dark fruit, particularly blueberry and blackcurrant, combine with pleasant hints of dried flowers and lavender, accompanied by delicate spicy sensations of white pepper and balsamic hints of mint and eucalyptus. Sweet, well-integrated aromas of white chocolate, candyfloss and dried fruit complete the rich bouquet. On the palate it is enveloping and creamy: the soft, silky tannins provide a long, lingering finish of great elegance, with an aftertaste reminiscent of liquorice and recalling the floral and spicy notes perceived on the nose.
Climate
The 2018 season in Chianti Classico opened with a fairly regular winter in terms of both temperatures and rainfall; despite these climatic conditions, the vineyards began their budding a week earlier than the historical average for the area. The spring period, and in particular May, was characterised by frequent rainfall and slightly lower than usual temperatures, while June and July were dry and fairly warm, without however ever manifesting extreme conditions. Some rain in August and a dry and windy period in September and October allowed the grapes to ripen in an ideal manner, guaranteeing a good sugar content and excellent polyphenolic ripening. The harvest began in the last days of September with the Cabernet Franc, continued with the Sangiovese, and concluded with the Cabernet Sauvignon on 10 October.
