At a glance

Producer

Marchesi Antinori

Region

Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (Brunello clone)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$200 (as of 2024, subject to provenance/condition)

Tasting profile

Matured aromas of dried cherry, fig, leather, dried herbs, forest floor, sweet tobacco, and subtle balsamic notes. Body is silky, with fruit yielding to developed earthy and savory nuance.

Evolution: Fruit has faded somewhat; the wine is driven by tertiary complexity (leather, mushroom, spice). Structure is gentle and harmonious.

At peak: During peak years, robust cherry/berry aromas supported by firm tannic and acid structure, with now-evolving secondary notes.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus (Sangiovese hallmark)

Tannins

Medium to medium-high (now softened and integrated)

Alcohol

14%

Aging potential

Up to 25-28 years in top storage; most bottles now at or just past peak, but not completely faded.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2010 to 2018

Optimal window

2006 to 2020

Current status

Mature – approaching end of optimal window but can be superb from well-stored bottles.

Current condition

Should still be enjoyable but expect fully resolved tannins, tertiary complexity, and some bottle variation. Drink soon from pristine bottles.

1998 was a classic, balanced vintage in Montalcino – not as long-lived as top years but from a major estate like Antinori, well-cellared bottles can reach 25+ years. This wine hit ideal peak 2010-2018, but excellent bottles can show well through 2025. Condition-dependent: strong bottles may offer enjoyment up to 2026 but will not improve further.

Food pairing

Best with aged Pecorino, bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar pappardelle, mushroom risotto, or hearty Tuscan stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes (gently)) — To separate sediment and aid aromatics; mature wines need gentle handling. Avoid extended aeration to preserve delicacy.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Antinori implements integrated pest management, selective hand harvesting, minimal use of chemicals, dedicated conservation of vineyard ecosystem; some solar and energy-efficiency upgrades in later years, but as of 1998, sustainable focus was present but less formalized.

Antinori is an industry leader for sustainability in recent decades–with investments in solar, water conservation, and ecosystem balance–but in 1998, formal certifications and carbon accountability were not yet standardized. Vineyard stewardship was strong by Tuscan standards, but bottle and transport impact is significant. Score reflects both historical and ongoing commitment, but this specific wine/vintage lacks formal modern certifications.