Produced by Marchesi Antinori at the Tenuta Tignanello estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Tignanello is one of Italy’s most iconic fine wines and a landmark in modern winemaking. First released with the 1971 vintage, Tignanello revolutionised Italian wine by becoming one of the original "Super Tuscans", breaking with traditional DOC regulations to pursue uncompromising quality. Owned by the Antinori family for over six centuries and now in its twenty-sixth generation, the estate is internationally recognised as one of the great names of Italian wine. The vineyards lie on the limestone- and marl-rich soils of the Tignanello hillside at 350–400 metres above sea level, where warm days and cool nights allow Sangiovese to achieve exceptional ripeness while retaining elegance and freshness. The outstanding 1998 vintage produced wines of remarkable concentration, balance and longevity, now beautifully expressing the complexity that only extended bottle ageing can bring.
Made primarily from Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon and a small proportion of Cabernet Franc, Tignanello 1998 was fermented parcel by parcel before maturing in French and Hungarian oak barrels, followed by extended bottle ageing. After more than twenty-five years, the wine has developed extraordinary aromatic complexity while retaining remarkable freshness. The bouquet reveals layers of black cherry, dried raspberry and plum intertwined with cedar, cigar box, leather, tobacco, graphite, balsamic herbs, dried flowers, truffle, liquorice and sweet spice. The palate is refined yet powerful, with beautifully integrated tannins, vibrant acidity and exceptional length, finishing with savoury mineral notes and remarkable elegance. One of Italy’s great mature wines, it pairs magnificently with bistecca alla Fiorentina, roast lamb, venison, game, truffle dishes and mature Pecorino.