2008 Tignanello
By Antinori
2008 Tignanello from Antinori, Italy
Capturing the quintessence of an ample vintage, the 2008 Tignanello from Antinori is an embodiment of passion and commitment, harmoniously blending thoughtful winemaking with a vibrant year. Estimating the value placed by fine wine investors on this art form, Antinori's mélange of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc both glistens and enriches the range of Italy's fine wines with the 2008 Tignanello one to relish.
The Cynosure: The 2008 Vintage
Of winning significance is the romance between the experience of the vineyard and the distinctiveness of the climatic conditions of 2008. A tad cooler than preceding vintages in spring yet favourably warm and dry during summer and harvest, allowed for a slower maturing of grapes. This efficacious union gave birth to a balanced ensemble of ripened fruit undertones and vibrant acidity - a character succinctly encapsulated in the 2008 Tignanello.
Tryst With Decadence & Complexity
The charm of this fine Tuscan red unfolds on first encounter with its illustrious ruby appearance. The nose is greeted with expressive notes of ripe crimson fruits and nuances of earthy truffles. A sip reveals a complex melody bound in layers; one discerns hints of red cherry, blackberry preserve laced with dainty whispers of spice – a testament to Antinori’s thoughtful wine crafting philosophy.
Investing in Sophistication: The Visionary Approach
An offering from one of Chianti’s foremost wine houses, Antinori's 2008 Tignanello holds a promising future for wine investment. An approach that marries honouring tradition while embracing innovation, Antinori’s wines are a doorway to longevity and timeless enjoyment.
Simply put, the 2008 Tignanello is less of a wine, more of an experience. Elegant, balanced and poise radiate from each sip. This is a bottle that not only stands tall among Italy's fine wines but is also an impeccable choice for sophisticated palates, discerned collectors and savvy investors.
Current market price
$2,800.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
120
Scores and tasting notes
The 2008 Tignanello is unquestionably one of the wines of the vintage. The 2008 isn’t a huge or obvious Tignanello, rather it is a wine that impresses for its sublime elegance and precision. Understated layers of fruit caress the palate like cashmere in this impeccable, soft wine. There is not a hard edge to be found. Black cherries, tobacco, smoke and licorice are some of the notes that come through on the finish. The flavor profile is decidedly on the dark side, but the wine’s structure is medium in body and intensity. In 2008 the Tignanello has more energy, focus and length than the Solaia. It is a fabulous achievement! The 2008 Tignanello is 80% Sangiovese aged in 300-liter French oak barrels (1/3rd new), 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, both aged in 100% new 225-liter French oak barriques. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Antinori seems to do everything well these days, from churning out millions of bottles of supermarket wines all the way to turning out superb versions of their many flagship bottlings. This is another impressive set of new releases with a number of highlights. Over the years oenologist Renzo Cotarella has moved away from the super-late harvests of the late 1990s/early 2000s in favor of picking slightly earlier, a decision that has paid off handsomely, especially over the last few years. Antinori’s 2008s, from a vintage that is quite inconsistent across the board, are superb. I remember spending a few days near the estate’s Tignanello and Badia a Passignano estates in mid-August 2008. The days were very hot, but the nights were so cool that a sweater or light jacket was a necessity Importer: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA, tel. (425) 415-3738
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 2011