Antinori   Solaia

2012 Solaia

By Antinori

2012 Solaia from Antinori, Tuscany, Italy

A commemorative year by any standard, the 2012 Solaia from Antinori is an endeavor into the extraordinary depth and complexity of Tuscan fine wines. What makes the 2012 Solaia distinct from its peers, is a rather atypical climatic set that year. The cooler spring temperatures were carried into a sizzling summer, resulting in an extended growing period that ushered in a beautifully potent opulence in the grapes.

 

A Year of Resistance and Reward

This vintage reveals its distinct character through its vivid expression of terroir. The complexity of 2012 expresses itself through every sip. Grown on limestone-rich soils that bring forth an elegant minerality, combined with the unique climatic conditions of 2012, the vintage offers an opportunity to experience a remarkable encounter between human skill and nature's bounty.

In terms of composition, this particular vintage carries a higher presence of Cabernet Sauvignon than usual (75%), married harmoniously with Cabernet Franc (20%) and Sangiovese (5%). The result is a balanced structure, ripe dark fruit tones interlaid with robust tannins and a silky finish.

 

Investing into the Essence of Italy

When it comes to fine wines from Italy, few can parallel the reputation and consistent deliverance of Antinori. As renowned custodians of Tuscan viticulture, their ability to create a wine so well-poised in its youthful vivacity while harbouring profound potential for maturation, truly sets them apart.

The 2012 Solaia is an exemplar from their portfolio - a wine that reminisces the nuances of its birth year whilst retaining the timeless charm inherent to its lineage. This makes it not just an offering of lavish indulgence for the oenophile, but a promising contender in the world of wine investment.

 

In Vino Veritas

As the Latin phrase goes 'in wine, there is truth', and the 2012 Solaia from Antinori is a vintage that indeed speaks profound truths. It echoes the resilience of nature amidst climate variations, the integrity of Antinori's winemaking philosophy, and the virtues of patient investing. In essence, this iconic Tuscan red extends far beyond its liquid form – encapsulating a year of synchronicity between earth's climatic play and human skill, reverberating in every bottle into posterity.

Current market price

$4,170.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

166.67

Scores and tasting notes

95

The 2012 Solaia is the ultimate comfort wine: It serves as a beautiful monument to the potential of Italian wine. Let me give you some context. My lukewarm review of the 2011 vintage caused some heads to turn. Happily, the previous vintage has served as a springboard for this current release. Both 2011 and 2012 come from hot climatic conditions, but these wines are very different in style and content. The 2011 heat softened the lines that make up the varietal identity of this celebrated Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Those lines are presented in sharp focus with the 2012 edition. The nose is redolent of dark berry, crushed mineral, plum, spice and touch of white pepper. The wine is integrated and seamless, but it speaks with a strong and articulate voice.

Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 2015

Vintage performance