Marchesi Antinori Tignanello 2006 3L Double Magnum

Pioneered by Giacomo Tachis in the late 1970s, this wine burst onto the international fine wine scene with dazzling effect. A single-vineyard wine from the Chianti Classico zone, it was among the first to include Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in the blend, and barriques for ageing. As a consequence, it had to be labelled as Vino da Tavola It isn’t made in every vintage, so when it’s good, it’s very good. This 2006, from Spurrier's own cellar, is just such a wine, with unyielding color right to the rim. The sweet nose has a singed tobacco note. On the palate it's full of sweet, juicy cassis and plum with a layer of cedar and earthy sous-bois. Dry, rich and elegantly full, the 2006 has grip, texture and volume in spades, followed by a gorgeously long finish.

Thanks to its excellent quality and universal appeal, you can count on Tignanello to make an excellent impression with any elegant meal…The wine delivers an interesting power play that pits cherry fruit against vibrant spice. It is tight and firm in the mouth with a slightly sweet or soft note on the close.

Intense aromas of ripe blackberry and flowers, with rosemary and coffee hints. Full-bodied, with chewy, polished tannins. Excellent fruit concentration and a flavorful aftertaste. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best after 2012. 29,165 cases made.

The 2006 Tignanello is especially opulent in this vintage. Masses of dark red fruit, scorched earth and sweet oak emerge as this richly-textured Tignanello flows from the glass. The wine possesses superb density; all it needs is another few years to come together. This is a remarkably vibrant and primary Tignanello. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.