Solaia 2012

The 2012 Solaia is intensely ruby red in colour with purple highlights. On the nose, it expresses elegant varietal character and freshness. This vintage has a classic style. It is characterized on the palate by a lovely harmony of flavours created through a delicate balance of acidity, tannins and a high-level fruit. The flavours linger on the palate with great personality and great persistence, making the finish exceptionally complex and vibrant.

This stunning expression of Solaia opens with ample aromas of exotic spices, tilled soil, mature black-skinned fruit and an underlying whiff of fragrant blue flowers. The vibrant, elegantly structured palate doles out high-toned black cherry, ripe blackberry, white pepper, cinnamon, clove and Mediterranean herbs alongside a backbone of firm, polished tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2017–2032.

Extremely impressive ripe dark fruits of blueberries, plums and blackberries follow through to a full-body, round texture and bright acidity. The finesse and depth to this red is stunning making it a fantastic successor to the 2011 Solaia.

The 2012 Solaia is the ultimate comfort wine: It serves as a beautiful monument to the potential of Italian wine. Let me give you some context. My lukewarm review of the 2011 vintage caused some heads to turn. The previous vintage has served as a springboard for this current release. Both 2011 and 2012 come from hot climatic conditions, but these wines are very different in style and content. The 2011 heat softened the lines that make up the varietal identity of this celebrated Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Those lines are presented in sharp focus with the 2012 edition. The nose is redolent of dark berry, crushed mineral, plum, spice and a touch of white pepper. The wine is integrated and seamless, but it speaks with a strong and articulate voice.