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SKU 914453
$2,969.82/case
$494.97/bottle
Tariffs included
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The 2001 Solaia, far superior to the overrated 1997 (to which I also prefer the 1999 and 1994) is a classic example of central Tuscan Cabernet at its best, ruby-purple in color, warm and explosive in its expression of black currant fruit, tobacco, tar, and graphite, superbly concentrated and dense on the palate but balanced and shapely at the same time and with a noble austerity and grip on the finish which resembles the best of Bordeaux. The wine is a sure bet for another two decades of superb drinking.
Italian Red Blends stand as a testament to the country’s rich winemaking diversity and heritage. Comprising a harmonious mix of indigenous and international grape varieties, these wines encapsulate the unique character of Italy’s diverse wine regions. Blends like Super Tuscans, combining Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, showcase a fusion of tradition and innovation. The Nebbiolo-based blends from Piedmont, such as Barbaresco and Barolo, exemplify elegance and longevity. Each region contributes distinct flavors, from the bold red fruits of the south to the structured tannins of the north.
The artistry lies in winemakers’ hands, skillfully crafting blends that balance acidity, tannins, and fruit expression. Italian Red Blends offer a kaleidoscope of aromas, flavors, and textures, reflecting the country’s varied terroirs. Whether exploring a classic Chianti blend or a contemporary interpretation, these wines invite enthusiasts on a captivating journey through Italy’s winemaking mosaic.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Tuscany
The central Italian region of Tuscany is widely understood to be one of the world's most famous and highly regarded wine regions. The beautiful rolling hillsides and medieval towns and castles which are a key feature of the area are also home to many of Europe's finest wineries, and extremely high quality vineyards growing the distinctive Sangiovese and Vernaccia grape varietals which are the flavorful backbone of Tuscany's wonderful red and white wines. For almost three thousand years, this region has been recognized as an ideal home for wine production on a large scale, and the ancient Etruscans, Greeks and Romans all noticed that fine grape varietals flourished on the unique soils and under the hot sunshine which typifies the area. Today, Tuscany is home to a wide range of wines, from the traditional to the complex, but all dedicated to excellent flavors and aromas, and maintaining the region's international reputation.
Appellation
Bolgheri
Bolgheri, nestled along the sun-soaked Tuscan coast, is a revered wine appellation renowned for producing outstanding red wines. What sets Bolgheri apart is its pioneering role in the creation of “Super Tuscan” wines, challenging traditional Italian winemaking. These wines often blend indigenous Sangiovese with international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, resulting in rich, complex flavors and a remarkable aging potential. Bolgheri’s coastal location influences a distinctive microclimate, characterized by warm days and cool maritime breezes, imparting freshness and structure to the wines. Notably, Sassicaia, born in Bolgheri, stands as a global benchmark for quality. Bolgheri wines, with their innovative spirit and unique terroir, encapsulate the essence of modern Italian winemaking, offering enthusiasts an exciting journey through the evolution of this dynamic appellation.
WA96pts
Wine Advocate
The 2001 Solaia, far superior to the overrated 1997 (to which I also prefer the 1999 and 1994) is a classic example of central Tuscan Cabernet at its best, ruby-purple in color, warm and explosive in its expression of black currant fruit, tobacco, tar, and graphite, superbly concentrated and dense on the palate but balanced and shapely at the same time and with a noble austerity and grip on the finish which resembles the best of Bordeaux. The wine is a sure bet for another two decades of superb drinking.
VM95pts
Vinous Media
The 2001 Solaia (magnum) represents the peak of an era in which richness, concentration and extraction were pushed to the limit, typical of so many wines in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Super-ripe dark red fruit, raspberry jam, rose petal, licorice and copious new oak build in an unapologetically rich, heady Solaia. The 2001 is not at all subtle, but it has aged well.
DC94pts
Decanter
Plump and rich in style, the palate offers layers of blackberry preserve as well as nuances of espresso and liquorice. The wine freshens up as it sits in the glass with leather and soy giving over to balsam, mint and thyme notes. While this may not have the utmost refinement, it is adeptly balanced in its full-figured and powerful expression.
WS93pts
Wine Spectator
A light, easygoing red, with clean black fruit and mineral character. Fresh palate and fruity finish. Pretty good for such a difficult vintage. Drink now. 375,000 cases made.
TWI92pts
The Wine Independent
This 2001 Marchesi Antinori Solaia has a very deep, almost black ruby colour. On the nose it has dark fruit, spicy, toasty, oak and a green herbal note. The color is brick at the rim and surprisingly this bottle looks more evolved than the 1998. Renzo Cotarella, CEO and head winemaker, explains that the 2001 was slightly overripe which explains why the color is more evolved. There are some faded brown sugar aromas as well as leather, spice, and cream, but on swirling the wine reveals some gentle, fragile fruit. With vibrant acidity on the palate, it is a little more oxidative in style but there is still a firmness to the tannins. The freshness of acidity and saltiness of tannins combine to give it a nervosity and there is a melting texture with tar, burnt toast and the beefy flavors of a mature wine.
