Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva "Marchese" Tignanello DOCG

Antinori's Marchese Riserva represents a watershed moment in Tuscan winemaking. The Tignanello estate, located in the heart of Chianti Classico between Florence and Siena, sits on clay-limestone soils at 300–350 meters elevation, where morning mists from the Arno valley moderate ripening across the growing season.

The blend anchors on Sangiovese (85%), supplemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel; the wine then ages 18 months in French oak (40% new, 60% second-use), followed by 12 months in bottle before release. This measured oak integration—neither dominating nor absent—allows the vineyard's mineral spine to remain legible.

The Marchese designation signals Antinori's commitment to single-site expression within their broader portfolio. Vintage variation is pronounced; the wine demands 5–8 years of cellar time to resolve its structural tannins into silky tannin texture.

Drinking window: 2025–2040.