Antinori Tignanello 2012

96 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blackcurrants and blueberries with hints of lavender and violets. Full body, chewy and polished tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A beautifully linear and polished red. Give it time to show it all but this is already a beauty. The depth and class to this are indeed impressive. Better in 2017. (8/5/15)"

95 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2012 Tignanello is deep, rich and voluptuous, yet also retains a distinct element of classicism in its focused, mid-weight structure. Dark red cherry, pomegranate, kirsch, spice, tobacco and menthol open up in the glass, but only reluctantly. Firm veins of tannin and pulsating acidity give the wine its sense of energy and verticality. The mid-weight structure should allow the wine to open up in another few years. The 2012 isn't as powerful as the 2010 or exotic as the 2011, but rather is most similar to how the 2005 was in its youth. The 2012 is a Tignanello built on pure finesse and grace. I would not open a bottle before its tenth birthday, if at all possible. Drink: 2022-2042. (Sep 2015)"

95 points/'Top 100 Cellar Selections 2015 (#79),' Kerin O'Keefe (Wine Enthusiast): "Here's a structured red with lots of finesse. It opens with alluring aromas of fragrant blue flowers, red berries, baking spices and exotic herbs while the firm, vibrant palate delivers black cherry, crushed raspberry, clove, orange zest, licorice and a sprinkling of white pepper. It's still young but well balanced, with tightly woven but polished tannins and fresh. (Aug 2015)"

94 points Falstaff Guide

93 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "The 2012 Tignanello is a very handsome wine with dark fruit nuances that extend far beyond the normal spectrum for Sangiovese (and the smaller percentages of French grapes that complete this wine). This vintage, that started off with a very hot summer and ended with a cool harvest season, show a little more spice and Mediterranean herb on the finish. Grapes were harvested at the end of September and delivered slightly less alcohol than previous vintages. There is a point of freshness but the tannins are mature and yielding. In fact, the tannic management is spot-on and is complimented by the velvety and rich nature of the mouthfeel. Pretty mineral accents add a lasting touch of complexity. The 2012 Tignanello has the qualities for a successful evolution. Drink: 2016-2030. (Oct 2015)"

93 points and 'Year's Best Tuscan Reds,' Wine & Spirits: "[$105 list] Although the warm growing season in 2012 required rigorous fruit selection at harvest, Antinori turned out a poised and complex version of Tignanello. A blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon from a limestone-rich vineyard in Chianti Classico’s northwestern sector, it underwent malolactic conversion and about 13 months of aging in French and Hungarian oak barrels. A savory note of green olive punctuates flavors of blackberry and plum edged in spice, with layers of dark chocolate and dried mushroom giving depth to the lush fruit. Supple tannins guide the flavors to a long and harmonious finish. (Apr 2016)"

Producer notes: "The 2012 Tignanello is an intense ruby red color with purple highlights. The wine is potent and complex on the nose with spicy notes which mingle with aromas of red fruit, like cherries and plums, smoke, balsamic sensations, licorice and rosemary. The flavors are mouth- filling and elegant with much volume and an excellent balance in the texture. The oak is perfectly fused in the spicy and fruity finish and aftertaste."