When one thinks of fine Italian wines, one of the first names that comes to mind is Antinori.
Marchese Piero Antinori represents the 25th generation at the helm of the family’s esteemed vineyards.
This noble Florentine family registered with the Guild of Winemakers in 1385, but it is the innovations made in the last 40 years that have brought the Antinori name to the forefront and earned the label worldwide renown.
Piero works closely with his three daughters, who are equally dedicated to carrying on the legacy. Their passion for winemaking echoes the family motto: “Te Duce Proficio,” or “The Quest for Excellence.”
At the Tignanello Estate south of Florence, Antinori first planted Syrah, Pinot Nero, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in the 1960s.
Experimenting with different blends a decade later, he pioneered the “Super Tuscan,” which catapulted Italy’s reputation for premium wine. “Tignanello,” the original Super Tuscan, is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc whose intensely fruity and complex flavor set the tone for a new breed of exceptional Italian wines.
With breathtaking views and a charming 16th-century villa, the Tignanello Estate is an enchanting destinaton for wine-loving travelers.
Stay at the nearby Fonte de Medici Farm House (fontedemedici.com), whose luxurious amenities include inviting suites, a wellness center and educational agri-tourism tours.
Dine at the low-key Trattoria della Fonte and enjoy delicious regional specialties paired with Antinori wines.
Just south of Tignanello is the Badia a Passignano estate. Part of the ancient monastery founded in 395, the abbey is still home to the Vallombrosano order, but Antinori owns and manages the surrounding vineyards.
Visitors can tour the wine cellars and enjoy Tuscan cuisine at Osteria di Passignano (osteriadipassignano.com).
From engaging, easy-drinking table wines to those aforementioned “Super Tuscan” bottlings, Antinori has developed an ever-growing – and absolutely deserved – following among lovers of Italian wine.
