Antinori Tignanello 2013 750ml

#8 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2016

Intensely ruby red in color with purple highlights, the 2013 Tignanello shows an intense nose of ripe red fruit in addition to notes of vanilla, chocolate, and leather imparted from the oak. Spicy and balsamic sensations give additional complexity in the layers of aromatics.

The wine is ample and enveloping on the palate with supple tannins and a savory freshness that fully respects the character and personality of the Sangiovese grape. The balance between acidity and tannins is excellent and thefinish and aftertaste are of a lovely length and persistence.

97 Points -

This is amazing on the nose with blackberry, black truffle, dried cherry and hints of tobacco. So complex on the nose. Almost no need to taste it. Full body, soft and velvety tannins, and a persistent, fabulous finish. The mouthfeel is magic. 80% sangiovese and 20% cabernet sauvignon. Drink or hold.

96 Points -

The 2013 Tignanello represents the beginning of a new chapter for Italy's ultimate game-changer wine. The blend remains 80% Sangiovese with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc but Renzo Cotarella tells me "stylistically-speaking, this is what we wanted to achieve." The winemaking formula remains the same, but one of the major differences and benefits to this wine is vineyard age. The celebrated Tignanello single vineyard is now reaching 15 years old. In other words, it is in its production prime. This is a harmonious and beautifully integrated wine that reveals black fruit and baking spice. I'm told the 2014 Tignanello will have a greater percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2015 vintage will have more Sangiovese.

94 Points -

Aromas of graphite, smoke and tobacco introduce the cherry flavor in this expressive, focused red. Firm tannins and lively acidity balance the fruit and purity, while herbal, spice and mineral elements all gather steam as this plays out on the long finish. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2017 through 2027.

94 Points -

Vibrant and loaded with finesse, this blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc opens with enticing scents of red woodland berry, new leather, Asian spice and a touch of menthol. The youthful palate delivers red currant, wild cherry, star anise and clove alongside a backbone of firm acidity and polished, tightly wound tannins. It will age majestically; drink 2020–2033. Cellar Selection.

92 Points -

Flavors of black currant and tobacco bring the influence of cabernet sauvignon (15 percent) and cabernet franc (5 percent) to the fore in this sangiovese-based blend. Ample alcohol lends a Bourbon-like edge to the wine’s oak-derived accents of vanilla and coconut, but sangiovese’s firm, raspy tannins guide the wine back toward red cherry flavors and into a long, smoky finish.