Antinori   Solaia

1997 Solaia

By Antinori

The 1997 Solaia from Antinori, a fine wine from Italy

Emerging from the revered Italian vineyards of Antinori, the 1997 Solaia represents a sublime example of Tuscan winemaking artistry in one of the most remarkable vintages of the decade. For followers of fine wines from Italy, this particular vintage evokes an unusual sensation - a palatable contrast of power and elegance.

 

A unique vintage with exceptional terroir influence

The vintage benefits immensely from the unique climatic conditions of 1997, basking in a synergy of favourable weather patterns that typify Tuscany. The season commenced with a mild winter followed by an early spring, which hastened the flowering phase. A warm summer with balanced rainfall created ideal conditions for ripening, paving the way for an exceptional harvest in early September.

This distinctive climate hallmark is mirrored eloquently in the harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese found within each bottle of Antinori's 1997 Solaia, resulting in a textbook fusion of fruit intensity, structure and longevity.

 

A valuable addition to any wine investment portfolio

From an investment perspective, demand for the 1997 Solaia remains remarkably robust, in part due to its scarce availability and its consistently high-scoring reviews reflecting its outstanding quality making it a compelling option for fine wine investors.

 

Sensual sips rekindling an unforgettable year

Swirl around a glass and you unleash aromatic waves featuring black cherries, licorice, chocolate and traces of tobacco - indeed an earthy mix echoing core Tuscan characteristics. Each sip unveils its rich, concentrated flavours, followed closely by a densely packed mid-palate and a long, satisfying finish that is the very essence of this captivating vintage.

In a nutshell, the 1997 Solaia from Antinori is an emblem of Tuscany’s winemaking prowess - a wine that reflects in every sip the exceptional climatic dance of one fine Italian summer. Despite being two decades old, its vibrancy remains a testament to its prestigious lineage and its position among the finest wines from Italy is indisputably secured.

Current market price

$5,950.00

12x75cl

Highest score

96

POP score

222.5

Scores and tasting notes

96

The unfiltered 1997 Solaia (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese, and 5% Cabernet Franc, from a single 25-acre vineyard) is aged in 100% new French oak. There are 8,000 cases of the 1997. The sensational, opaque blue/purple-colored 1997 exhibits a complex nose of cedar, spice box, cassis, and subtle oak. With yields of only 30 hectoliters per hectare, and malolactic fermentation in barrel (a la Tignanello), this wine reveals extraordinary concentration, a thick, viscous texture, yet no sense of heaviness or ponderousness. It is a thrilling Solaia to consume over the next two decades. If a first-growth Pauillac were made in Tuscany, this would be it! Importer: Remy Amerique, New York, NY; tel. (212) 399-0200

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 February 2000

Vintage performance