Tignanello marked a turning point in Italian winemaking history, setting new standards with its bold innovations. It was the first Sangiovese to be matured in barriques and the first modern red wine in Italy to incorporate non-traditional grape varieties—most notably, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It was also among the earliest Chianti Classico wines to be produced without the inclusion of white grapes, breaking with long-standing regional traditions. A true trailblazer, Tignanello is crafted from a carefully chosen blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, and stands as a symbol of progress and excellence in Tuscan viticulture.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello, Producer
The Antinori family has been a cornerstone of Tuscan winemaking for over six centuries, with a global presence that dates back four hundred years. The acquisition of the Tignanello estate in 1900 marked a new chapter of expansion, driven by strategic vineyard acquisitions and the creation of world-renowned wines. Today, Antinori stands as one of Italy’s most prestigious wine producers, with influential holdings not only in Tuscany but also in regions such as Piedmont, Lombardy, Umbria, and Puglia.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello, Vineyard and Winemaking
Tenuta Tignanello is located in the heart of Chianti Classico, nestled between the Greve and Pesa valleys. Out of the estate’s 147 hectares of vineyard, 47 hectares are dedicated to Tignanello. These plots are defined by ideal marl and limestone soils. Recent viticultural improvements include the placement of white stones beneath the vine rows, a technique used to reflect sunlight, enhancing grape ripening and maturity.
Upon arrival at the winery, grapes are carefully destemmed and sorted berry by berry to ensure only the highest quality fruit proceeds to fermentation. Following alcoholic fermentation and maceration, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in new oak barrels. The various lots are then blended and aged for 14 to 15 months in a mix of French and Hungarian barriques. Each barrel is individually assessed before final blending and bottling, after which the wine spends an additional year aging in bottle prior to release.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello, The Design
The iconic Tignanello label was created by renowned Italian designer Silvio Coppola in 1974, specifically for the release of the 1971 vintage. The idea to enlist Coppola’s talents was conceived during a gathering at Castello della Sala in 1973. Known for his minimalist aesthetic and refined sensibility, Coppola had earned a distinguished reputation through his work in graphic and interior design — from sleek lighting and stark, modern furniture to striking book covers for the esteemed Italian publisher Feltrinelli. His clean, bold style made him the ideal choice to craft a label that would reflect both the innovation and timeless elegance of Tignanello.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello 2021, Vintage
The 2021 vintage in Chianti Classico unfolded slowly and steadily, promising both power and finesse. Winter was mild and rainy, with early spring triggering bud break. Cool, dry conditions in April briefly slowed growth, while May and June brought balanced weather and ideal flowering. Summer was hot and dry, but late August rains helped initiate optimal ripening. September and October delivered ideal harvest conditions—sunny days, cool nights, and no heat spikes. Widely regarded as one of the best vintages, harvesting began in late September with Sangiovese and concluded on October 20th with Cabernet.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello 2021, Tasting Notes
The 2021 Tignanello presents a striking ruby red colour with deep purple undertones. On the nose, it reveals a multi-layered and expressive bouquet, beginning with ripe plums, blackberries, and candied orange peel. These fruit-driven aromas are complemented by rich nuances of dark chocolate, caramel, and liquorice, while delicate hints of sweet tobacco add further depth and intrigue. The palate is full-bodied and refined, with silky, energetic tannins that frame the wine’s intensity and elegance. A long, lingering finish leaves a lasting impression of balance and complexity.
Marchese Antinori Tignanello 2021, Awards
Antonio Galloni – 98/100 points
Wine Spectator – 97/100 points
Food pairing suggestion: Venison tenderloin.
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