Elevate your wine collection with the iconic Argiano Solengo, a masterful Tuscan blend that harmonizes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Sangiovese. Deep purple in color, this full-bodied wine entices with a bouquet of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and toasty oak, complemented by notes of spice and chocolate. Its velvety texture and well-integrated tannins deliver exceptional balance, complexity, and elegance while showcasing its Mediterranean heritage. Crafted at one of Montalcino's oldest estates, dating back to 1580, this wine offers both immediate enjoyment and remarkable aging potential. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking a modern expression of Tuscany's viticultural prowess.
Process & Profile
Argiano Solengo, meaning "lone wild boar" in Tuscan, is a tribute to the innovative vision of legendary enologist Giacomo Tachis. This wine blends Tuscany's unique terroir with French grape varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Sangiovese. The vines flourish at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, enjoying cool summer nights, consistent breeze from the Maremma, and protection from Mount Amiata.
The vinification process is meticulous. Grapes undergo separate fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation and aging in French oak barriques for 12 months. The final blend is crafted with precision, ensuring complexity and harmony. Unfiltered before bottling, the wine may develop harmless sediment, a hallmark of natural, high-quality wines.
Tasting Notes
Argiano Solengo is a sensory delight, starting with its deep ruby-purple hue. On the nose, expect blackcurrants, blackberries, and red fruits, interwoven with intriguing scents of sandalwood, incense, and dark chocolate. The palate is powerful yet balanced, offering flavors of ripe black fruits, balsamic touches, and a hint of spice. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity lead to a long, savory finish with notes of tobacco and cedar.
Highlights:
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Nose: Blackcurrants, undergrowth, spiced oak, and minerality.
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Palate: Ripe dark fruits, chocolate, and fine spices.
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Finish: Harmonious, with persistent elegance.
What Makes It Special
Argiano Solengo stands out as one of Tuscany's finest examples of the Super Tuscan style. Its creation marked a turning point for Argiano, moving beyond traditional Sangiovese-based wines to incorporate Bordeaux varieties. The wine reflects the synergy of Mediterranean sunlight and French sophistication, yielding a bold yet refined character that ages gracefully. This remarkable blend is produced in limited quantities, ensuring exclusivity and unparalleled quality.
Key Features:
- Prestigious legacy of winemaker Giacomo Tachis.
- Unique terroir: limestone-rich soil and optimal microclimate.
- Awarded high scores by critics, such as 95 points by James Suckling.
How to Enjoy
Argiano Solengo's versatile profile makes it ideal for a variety of occasions. Here's how you can elevate your enjoyment:
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Pairing Suggestions: Complement its bold flavors with dishes like grilled red meats, roasted lamb, or aged cheeses. It also pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes featuring rich tomato-based sauces.
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Serving Tips: Decant for at least an hour to allow the wine to fully express its aromas and flavors. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F).
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Cellaring: While approachable in its youth, Solengo benefits from aging. Store it in a cool, dark place, and enjoy its evolution over 10-20 years.
Argiano Solengo combines tradition with innovation, showcasing Tuscany's ability to produce world-class wines. Whether shared during special moments or savored alone, this wine is a testament to Argiano's legacy and winemaking excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the composition of Argiano Solengo?
Argiano Solengo is a Super Tuscan blend consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Syrah (or Sangiovese in some vintages). The specific percentages may vary slightly depending on the vintage, but the wine always highlights a harmony of international grape varieties with a Tuscan character.
What does "Super Tuscan" mean, and is Solengo one of them?
Yes, Solengo is a Super Tuscan wine. The term refers to Italian wines that combine traditional Tuscan grape varieties with international ones, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, often defying DOC/DOCG regulations to achieve a distinctively bold and modern profile.
What are the tasting notes for Argiano Solengo?
Argiano Solengo is known for its deep purple color and a complex bouquet of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry, accented by notes of coffee, dark chocolate, and toasty oak. On the palate, it offers velvety smoothness, rich fruit concentration, finely integrated tannins, and a long, persistent finish with spicy, savory nuances.
Can Solengo be aged?
Yes, Argiano Solengo has an excellent aging potential. While it can be enjoyed young for its vibrant fruit and balance, it develops deeper complexity and elegance with 10-15 years or more of proper cellaring depending on the vintage.
What is the best food pairing for this wine?
Solengo pairs beautifully with rich dishes such as grilled red meats, game, mature cheeses, and hearty pasta dishes. Its robust structure and complexity make it an excellent choice for special occasions and gourmet meals.
How is Argiano Solengo made?
The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged in new French oak barriques for 12 months, blended, and then bottled. It is unfiltered to preserve its natural quality, which may result in harmless sediment over time.
What is unique about the Argiano estate?
Argiano, located in Montalcino, Tuscany, is one of the region's most historic wineries, with roots dating back to the 16th century. The estate combines traditional practices with modern techniques to reflect the exceptional terroir of Montalcino. Additionally, Argiano is committed to sustainability, practicing organic farming and eliminating single-use plastics.
What is the meaning of the name "Solengo"?
The name "Solengo" translates to "solitary wild boar" in Tuscan dialect, symbolizing the bold and self-assured character of the wine.
What critics’ scores does Argiano Solengo consistently receive?
Solengo consistently receives high ratings from top wine critics, often scoring in the 90-98 range. Recent vintages have been praised for their balance, aromatic complexity, and structure.
What are some ideal serving recommendations?
Solengo should be served at around 16-18°C (60-64°F) and decanted for at least an hour before serving to bring out its full array of aromas and flavors.
