Antinori

The legacy of Tignanello and Solaia

Tignanello was the first Italian red wine to challenge the strict DOC rules by introducing international grape varieties and modern ageing techniques. Its bold combination of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, aged in small oak barrels, caused a sensation and inspired a new generation of Tuscan wines. Soon after came Solaia, an equally groundbreaking wine from the same Santa Cristina estate, this time dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wines are now considered modern icons of Italian viticulture, rich, expressive, and powerful.

Guado al Tasso: The coastal jewel of Bolgheri

Antinori’s innovation extends beyond Chianti to Tenuta Guado al Tasso, a spectacular estate in the Bolgheri DOC zone on Tuscany’s Mediterranean coast. Once part of feudal lands owned by the historic Della Gherardesca family, the estate has deep roots: over 1,000 years of regional history and a landscape dotted with castles and watchtowers. In the 20th century, the land passed to Carlotta della Gherardesca Antinori—mother of Piero Antinori—linking it to other key figures in Super-Tuscan history, such as Mario Incisa della Rocchetta of Sassicaia fame.

A diverse, thriving estate

Today, Guado al Tasso spans over 1,000 hectares, with 300 planted to vines. The vineyards sit 45–60 metres above sea level in an area known as the Bolgheri amphitheatre, benefiting from a unique microclimate shaped by the nearby Mediterranean Sea. This ensures early-ripening, stable temperatures, and a long growing season—ideal for producing bold, structured wines. Key grape varieties include: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Syrah, Vermentino, and Small parcels of Cabernet Franc.

Pioneering viticulture and winemaking

Antinori’s dedication to quality is evident in its ongoing investments in clonal selection, vineyard research, and sustainable practices. In 1994, a vine nursery was established at Guado al Tasso to propagate superior clones of Vermentino, Sangiovese, Cabernet, and Merlot for use across other Antinori estates. Thanks to this meticulous approach, Guado al Tasso now produces a portfolio of acclaimed wines:

• Guado al Tasso Bolgheri DOC Superiore (Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot)
• Scalabrone Bolgheri Rosato DOC (Sangiovese, Merlot & Syrah)
• Vermentino di Bolgheri DOC (100% Vermentino)