2012 Antinori, Tignanello

View More Antinori Vintages. ABOUT THE WINE. Produced exclusively from the 57-hectare Tignanello vineyard in the heart of Chianti Classico, this landmark wine has been crafted by the Antinori family since 1970. The family’s Tuscan winemaking roots date back to 1385, when Giovanni di Piero Antinori joined Florence’s Winemakers’ Guild. Today, Marchese Piero Antinori oversees the estate with his daughters Albiera, Allegra and Alessia. Tignanello 2012 comes from a season that began hot and dry before a cooler, longer harvest – a combination that yielded remarkable balance, depth and poise.. TASTING NOTES. Sangiovese leads the profile, supported by small proportions of French varieties (Cabernet family). The bouquet opens with dark cherry, blackberry and plum, expanding into spice and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, the wine is velvety and rich yet lifted, with mature, yielding tannins and a point of freshness thanks to the cooler end to the season and slightly lower alcohol. Subtle mineral accents and a persistent finish underline the wine’s finesse and complexity. Drink now–2032.. FOOD PAIRING. Perfect with red meats and veal (bistecca alla fiorentina, veal chop), slow-cooked stews with porcini or herbs, and aged hard cheeses such as Pecorino or Parmesan.. FRIARWOOD SAYS. A handsome, classically styled Tignanello: the hot summer built dark fruit and texture, while the cool harvest preserved freshness and precision. Tannin management is spot-on – approachable with a short decant, yet clearly structured for further evolution.