Is Tignanello 2016 ready to drink?

Answered by Michael Blake

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting many wines, including the 2016 Marchesi Antinori Tignanello Toscana IGT. This Super Tuscan is known for its rich flavors and complex aromas, and I can confidently say that it is indeed ready to drink, despite its relative youth.

The 2016 Tignanello is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, which gives it a unique character and depth. The has a deep ruby color, indicating its concentration and intensity. On the nose, I detected aromas of ripe red fruits, such as cherries and plums, along with hints of spice and vanilla from the oak aging.

When I took my first sip of the Tignanello, I was immediately struck by its smoothness and balance. The tannins were well-integrated and silky, allowing the flavors to shine through. The wine had a medium to full body, with a lingering finish that left me wanting another sip.

One of the remarkable things about the 2016 Tignanello is that, despite its youth, it is already showing great complexity and depth. The flavors of dark berries, cherries, and plums were complemented by notes of tobacco, leather, and a touch of earthiness. These secondary flavors added another layer of complexity to the wine, making it a joy to drink.

Another factor that contributes to the drinkability of the 2016 Tignanello is its excellent structure. The wine has a good acidity that keeps it fresh and vibrant, while the oak aging adds a touch of richness and texture. This balance of flavors and textures makes it a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.

While the 2016 Tignanello is ready to drink now, it also has the potential for further aging. The well-integrated tannins and the wine's overall balance suggest that it will continue to develop and evolve over the next decade or so. If you have the patience and storage conditions to allow for aging, I believe this wine will reward you with even more complexity and depth in the future.

The 2016 Marchesi Antinori Tignanello Toscana IGT is a superb wine that is ready to be enjoyed now. Its youthful vibrancy, balanced flavors, and complex aromas make it a delightful choice for any wine lover. Whether you choose to drink it now or cellar it for future enjoyment, I believe that this Super Tuscan will not disappoint.