Marchesi Antinori - Solaia 2007
In the heart of Chianti Classico, Solaia is produced on the Tenuta Tignanello, the historic estate of the Antinori family located between the Greve and Pesa valleys. The cuvée comes from the Solaia vineyard, a plot of about twenty hectares facing southwest and situated between 350 and 400 meters altitude. The soils rich in alberese and galestro, limestone formations emblematic of this part of Tuscany, promote drainage and contribute to the finesse of the structure. Born in 1978, Solaia has gradually established itself as one of the great Italian wines resulting from the alliance between Bordeaux grape varieties and Sangiovese. Cabernet Sauvignon forms its backbone, while Sangiovese brings a more distinctly Tuscan expression and complementary freshness. Cabernet Franc plays a more discreet role, with an important part in aromatic complexity. The 2007 vintage, warm and consistent, produces a generous but particularly harmonious wine, now entering a very attractive maturity phase.
Solaia 2007 blends 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The different grape varieties are harvested and vinified separately to respect their own maturity before blending. Cabernet Sauvignon provides depth, structure, and persistence, while Sangiovese refines the whole with its acidity and livelier expression. Cabernet Franc completes the profile with floral, spicy, and slightly balsamic nuances. Vinification is conducted with particular attention to the finesse of extractions to preserve the natural balance of the vintage. Aging in oak barrels then supports the structure and allows gradual integration of tannins and wood. After nearly twenty years of evolution, the 2007 retains a deep substance while developing an increasingly complex tertiary palette.
The color shows a deep garnet with ruby reflections that begin to slightly evolve on the rim. The nose combines blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry with hints of tobacco, cedar, and sweet spices. Aeration gradually reveals fine leather, cocoa, Mediterranean herbs, and a balsamic dimension that adds great relief. The palate remains ample and velvety, with tannins now perfectly integrated giving the wine a refined texture. The ripe black fruit remains present but is now accompanied by notes of undergrowth, graphite, and spices that enhance complexity. The finish is long and balanced, on blackcurrant, tobacco, cocoa, and fine mineral nuances. Solaia 2007 will accompany a beef filet with porcini mushrooms, roasted pigeon, rack of lamb, game birds, or refined cuisine centered around black truffle.
Grape varieties: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Franc
