2021 Argiano Solengo Toscana IGT Jeroboam 3L, Tuscany

Stunning from the first tilt of the glass, the 2021 Solengo lifts from the glass with an expressive bouquet of crushed blackberries and cherries, with sage and mint nuances to complement as a whiff of crushed ashen stone adds lovely complexity. Though silken and weighty upon entry, it quickly livens up as a core of brilliant acidity adds lift to its dark red and black fruits. Edgy tannins inform the long and structured finish, leaving the palate aching with youthful intensity even as dark primary fruits still saturate it. This is a beautifully balanced and detailed Solengo that will require patience to fully enjoy. The 2021 is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Petit Verdot, Merlot and Sangiovese. Drink: 2028 - 2038 

95+ points Eric Guido, Vinous Jan 2025 

Fascinating aromas of blackcurrants, orange peel, stone, minerals and blanched walnuts follow through to a medium to full body with firm and polished tannins that deliver a pleasant, caressing mouthfeel. But it requires more bottle age, as expected. This needs two or three years to show more, but it’s already very pretty. Drink after 2026.

95 points James Suckling

Rich, impenetrable ruby purple. Opens on the nose with pronounced spicy notes, resinous juniper, rich plum fruit, some dark pepper. Full-bodied and dense texture, lots of dark berryish fruit paired with fine spice, dense tannins, but also shows good flow, dark fruit and chocolate on the finish.

95 points Falstaff

Argiano's magnificent Renaissance estate has been part of Montalcino's landscape for centuries, but Solengo represents a more adventurous chapter in its history. First produced in 1995 with the guidance of Giacomo Tachis, the legendary winemaker associated with Sassicaia and Tignanello, it quickly established a reputation among Tuscany's leading modern reds. Today, under the direction of Bernardino Sani, Argiano continues to refine the wine, combining the estate's historic roots with a distinctly contemporary approach. The exceptional 2021 vintage has produced a particularly compelling Solengo, with impressive concentration, freshness and finesse.

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Sangiovese, Solengo draws its character from vineyards on the southwestern slopes of Montalcino. The 2021 growing season delivered beautifully ripe fruit with excellent natural acidity, resulting in wines of remarkable balance and definition. Cabernet Sauvignon contributes structure and dark fruit, Merlot adds richness and texture, Petit Verdot provides colour and aromatic intensity, while Sangiovese introduces a distinctly Tuscan savoury character. Careful maturation in French oak integrates these elements without masking the fruit or the vineyard's personality.

Deep ruby purple with a dense, youthful core. Blackcurrant, dark cherry and ripe blackberry are joined by violet, cedar and graphite, followed by hints of liquorice, tobacco and dark chocolate. The palate is concentrated and beautifully composed, with generous dark fruit, finely grained tannins and a vibrant thread of acidity. There is a lovely tension between richness and freshness, while notes of black olive, dried sage and mineral spice develop through the middle. The finish is long, persistent and beautifully structured, leaving impressions of cassis, cocoa and savoury herbs. A serious Solengo with the balance to age gracefully.

Wild mushroom pappardelle, porcini risotto or roasted eggplant with lentils and aged Pecorino would complement its savoury character beautifully. Slow braised beef cheeks, rosemary roasted lamb or a well aged steak would also be excellent partners. Decant generously if opening in its youth, although this is a vintage that deserves a little patience.

Cellaring: Drink 2028 to 2045+. The exceptional balance, concentration and tannin structure of the 2021 vintage suggest outstanding ageing potential.