the history of Solaia
Solaia is one of Tuscany's most prestigious wines and one of the iconic wines of the Antinori family. The vineyard is located on the historic Tenuta Tignanello estate, where the family has been active in winemaking since the 14th century. Solaia was first produced in 1978 from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. In later years, Sangiovese was added to give the wine an even more pronounced Italian character. Since then, Solaia has been produced exclusively in the best vintages and is considered one of the absolute top wines of Italy and the world.
the vineyard and the terroir
The Solaia vineyard covers approximately 20 hectares at an altitude of 350 to 400 meters above sea level, with a southwesterly exposure. The soils consist of calcareous rock, Alberese (limestone and clay), and Galestro (marl and sandstone). This terroir ensures perfect drainage and rich minerality, giving the wine its distinct structure and elegance. Thanks to its location, the grapes benefit from abundant sunlight as well as cooling evening breezes, essential for freshness and balance.
the climate and the harvest of 2022
The 2022 growing season was characterized by contrasts. Spring and early summer were warm and dry, particularly in June and July when temperatures were higher than average. The vines showed resilience and maintained healthy growth and abundant flowering. In August, a change in weather brought long-awaited rain and lower temperatures, creating a favorable day-night temperature swing. This ensured excellent ripening of the grapes, maintaining freshness and aromatic complexity. Harvest began on September 23rd with Cabernet Franc, followed by Sangiovese in late September, and concluded on October 5th with Cabernet Sauvignon. The result is fruit of exceptional quality, fully ripe and perfectly balanced.
grape varieties and blend
Solaia 2022 is blended with 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Sangiovese, and 10% Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone, giving the wine power, structure, and dark fruit. Sangiovese adds vibrant acidity and refinement, while Cabernet Franc provides elegance, spice, and added complexity. This combination makes Solaia distinctive: powerful and intense, yet simultaneously refined and harmonious.
vinification and maturation
The harvest was carried out entirely by hand, and the grapes were carefully sorted in the cellar. Only the finest berries were placed in the 60 hectoliter conical fermentation tanks. During fermentation and maceration, the goal was to achieve an optimal balance between fruit and tannins. After alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation took place in barriques, adding complexity and softness. The wine then matured for approximately 15 months in new French oak barrels, with the different batches aged separately and then blended for the final blend. This results in a wine that combines power, finesse, and depth.
tasting notes of the 2022 Solaia
Solaia 2022 displays an intense ruby red color with purple hues. The bouquet opens with ripe dark fruit: blackcurrant, blueberry, plum, and fig, complemented by violets and a hint of sugar powder. Later, spicy notes of white pepper, tobacco, and quinine follow. The palate is rich and creamy on the attack, with remarkable freshness and energy. Silky tannins provide structure and length, while the finish is intense and deep. It is a wine that is immediately accessible, yet with enormous aging potential for decades in the cellar. Unique magnum edition OWC/1
Would you like to order Antinori's Solaia wines online?
If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
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wine and food pairings with the 2022 Solaia
- Grilled ribeye with herb butter – the powerful structure of the wine supports the rich flavors of the meat.
- Oven-baked leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic – the spicy notes complement the complexity of Solaia beautifully.
- Pasta with wild boar ragù – the intense meat flavours are balanced by the fruity and spicy nuances of the wine.
- Truffle and Parmesan Risotto – the creamy texture and earthy notes enhance the wine’s depth and elegance.
- Grilled eggplant, zucchini, and bell pepper with pecorino cheese – the savory vegetable and cheese notes accentuate the fresh acidity and fruity aromas.
- Hare Pepper with Cloves and Laurel – the rich gamey flavours and spices combine beautifully with the ripe, spicy Cabernet components.
