Antinori Solaia 2011 (6.0L)

96 JS / 96 AG / 94 WS

A big, rich wine but there's lots of brightness and beauty at the same time. Shows licorice and asphalt. Full body with chewy tannins and a long finish. Terracotta, Tuscan dust and spice; balsamic too. This needs three to five years to soften. Intense finish. James Suckling

Blackberry jam, cassis, grilled herbs and melted road tar meld together in the 2011 Solaia. Another super-exotic, racy 2011 from Antinori, Solaia is supremely beautiful. Mocha, espresso and sage are some of the many notes that add complexity. Hints of white truffle, lavender, smoke and licorice are laced into the exotic, racy finish. In 2011, Solaia has a dollop more of Cabernet Franc in the blend, added to give the wine a touch of freshness. Ripe and flashy to the core, the 2011 needs time to lose some of its youthful exuberance. At times, the 2011 could be easily mistaken for a wine from Napa Valley, such is its intensity. Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

This rich, bright red displays plum, blackberry, boysenberry, leather and spice notes, allied to a dense structure. Remains balanced and juicy through the finish and is built for the long haul. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2018 through 2033. 500 cases imported. Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator