Tignanello
Marchesi Antinori · Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- Marchesi Antinori
- Region
- Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy
- Grape variety
- Sangiovese (80%), Cabernet Sauvignon (15%), Cabernet Franc (5%)
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Bone Dry
- Typical price
- $110-$140 USD retail (750ml bottle), typical 2020 vintage pricing from Wine-Searcher averages and top merchants
Tasting profile
Dominated by concentrated dark cherry, blackcurrant, and plum fruit wrapped in notes of cedar, tobacco, herbs, and a touch of oak spice; tannic grip is firm and acidity lively
Evolution: Over time, fruit will deepen with more secondary aromas of leather, earth, truffle, and dried herbs developing; tannins will integrate and smoothen
At peak: At peak, expect a harmonious complexity with silky tannins, layered dark fruit, noticeable but balanced oak, and long, elegant finish
Structure
- Acidity
- High natural acidity providing backbone and freshness, excellent for long-term aging
- Tannins
- Firm, grainy with fine-grained structure; typical of top Sangiovese and Cabernet blends showing good phenolic maturity
- Alcohol
- Moderate to moderately high (~14-14.5%), well integrated and balanced with structure
- Aging potential
- 15+ years from vintage with excellent cellaring potential to 20+ years in ideal conditions
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2030 to 2057
- Optimal window
- 2028 to 2060
- Current status
- Needs aging
- Current condition
- Firm tannins and tight primary fruit; structured but early for peak enjoyment
The peak window is chosen because by around 8-10 years post-vintage, the robust tannic structure will have mellowed sufficiently to reveal full flavor integration and textural harmony. Beyond the peak, tertiary characteristics deepen but fruit freshness will slowly fade.
Food pairing
Pairs beautifully with rich Tuscan dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), roasted game birds, lamb ragù, mushroom risottos, and aged hard cheeses like Pecorino Toscano. As the wine matures, pairs well with earthy, umami-rich dishes and truffle-infused preparations.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow concentrated aromas to open up fully in a highly structured red
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Use of renewable energy, reduction of chemical inputs, and maintenance of biodiversity in vineyards
Antinori is recognized for progressive sustainability measures though Tignanello is not fully organic or biodynamic; overall good standards for environmental responsibility