2022 Argiano Solengo Toscana IGT Magnum 1.5L, Tuscany

The 2022 Solengo slowly evolves in the glass with a collage of crushed blackberries, dried rosemary, shavings of blood orange and graphite. It’s silken in feel, displaying amazing density offset by a crunchy core of minerality and riveting acidity that further enhances its tart wild berry fruits. This finishes with hulking structure, leaving edgy tannins to mingle with blackcurrants and a cascade of violet inner florals, while tapering off with staining length. Bury this deep in the cellar. The 2022 Solengo is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot, 20% Merlot and 5% Sangiovese. Drink: 2029 – 2042 

94 points Eric Guido, Vinous, Apr 2026 

Argiano may be best known for its Brunello, but Solengo tells a very different and equally fascinating story. Created in 1995 with the guidance of legendary winemaker Giacomo Tachis, the man behind Sassicaia and Tignanello, Solengo helped establish the historic Montalcino estate as a serious producer of modern Tuscan reds. Today, under the direction of Bernardino Sani, it remains one of Argiano's most sought after wines, combining the generosity of international varieties with the distinctive character of the estate's southern Tuscan vineyards.

Unlike Argiano's Sangiovese based Brunellos, Solengo is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Sangiovese. The grapes come from vineyards surrounding the estate in southwestern Montalcino, where warm days, cooling breezes and varied soils contribute both ripeness and structure. The 2022 growing season was warm and dry, producing concentrated fruit, while careful harvesting and maturation in French oak helped retain balance. The result is a richly textured red with impressive depth, yet enough freshness to keep its considerable power in check.

Deep ruby with an almost opaque purple centre. Blackcurrant, ripe blackberry and dark plum lead the aromas, followed by violet, cedar, liquorice and graphite. Hints of cocoa, tobacco and dried rosemary develop with air. The palate is full and generous, with concentrated dark fruit, velvety texture and firm, finely polished tannins. Black cherry, espresso and savoury spice emerge through the middle, supported by a fresh mineral thread that prevents the wine from feeling heavy. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering cassis, dark chocolate and a subtle earthy character.

Porcini pappardelle, mushroom and truffle risotto or roasted eggplant with lentils and aged Pecorino would make excellent partners. For something more substantial, consider slow braised beef cheeks, rosemary roasted lamb or a thick grilled steak with salsa verde. This is a wine that benefits from an hour or two in the decanter, particularly while young, although its greatest pleasures may still be several years away.

Cellaring: Drink 2027 to 2042. Already impressive with aeration, but the concentration and structure of the 2022 vintage should reward extended cellaring.