This stunning expression of Solaia opens with ample aromas of exotic spices, tilled soil, mature black-skinned fruit and an underlying whiff of fragrant blue flowers. The vibrant, elegantly structured palate doles out high-toned black cherry, ripe blackberry, white pepper, cinnamon, clove and Mediterranean herbs alongside a backbone of firm, polished tannins and bright acidity. Drink: 2017-2032. Cellar Selection. Score - 97. (Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Aug. 1, 2015)

Rich, deep dark ruby purple. Opens with notes of mint and walnuts, then lush blackcurrant, dark cherry and subtle chocolate tones in the background. Shows plenty of ripe, well-defined fruit on the attack as well as supple, dense tannins that fill the palate powerfully. Very balanced and round. [Drink through mid-2030s.] Score - 97. (falstaff.com, Feb. 13, 2015)

A new red from Antinori. Intense aromas of crushed berries with hints dried herbs and fresh mint. Full body, with wonderfully silky tannins and a long intense finish. Beautiful polished fruit. This is 100% Cabernet Franc. Better in 2014 [through 2024+]. Score - 94. (jamessuckling.com, Aug. 8, 2011)

The 2001 Solaia, far superior to the overrated 1997 (to which I also prefer the 1999 and 1994) is a classic example of central Tuscan Cabernet at its best, ruby-purple in color, warm and explosive in its expression of black currant fruit, tobacco, tar, and graphite, superbly concentrated and dense on the palate but balanced and shapely at the same time and with a noble austerity and grip on the finish which resembles the best of Bordeaux. The wine is a sure bet for another two decades of superb drinking. Drink date: 2006-2026. Score - 96. (Daniel Thomases, robertparker.com, April 23, 2006)

Both the bud burst and flowering were early as compared with the preceding year. The summer season initially saw an important rise in temperature, which was then rebalanced during the second half of the month of August. The harvest took place during the final ten days of September, relatively early. A warm powerful vintage without the dryness of 2012 and with great potential. Matarocchio is crimson and super-restrained with straw, clove and oaky aromas on the nose, well balanced with fresh leather, fine herbal aromas, bramble fruit and savoury character in depth. It shows an austere palate; full, firm and chalky yet ripe, however it flows with the grace of the best Cabernet Franc. Drinking window: 2020-2045. Score - 97. (Aldo Fiordelli, decanter.com, June 11, 2020)

Super-restrained cassis fruit with an almost blueberry maturity in front of violet, clove and blond tobacco spiciness. Retasting the wine the next day, it shines with graphite minerality, pure leather, and a touch of lemon thyme. Creamy and full on the palate, it has refined and meaty tannins, with lively acidity and great balance overall. You would not think this wine was aged in 100% new French oak for 18 months because of the great fruit concentration on display, but the top quality of the oak used is evident. The potential of Solaia is to be seen over the years, to discover its character as it matures. It's never cutesy, always elegant. Drinking window: 2021-2040. Score - 97. (Aldo Fiordelli, decanter.com, Sept. 25, 2020)

The 2001 Solaia, far superior to the overrated 1997 (to which I also prefer the 1999 and 1994) is a classic example of central Tuscan Cabernet at its best, ruby-purple in color, warm and explosive in its expression of black currant fruit, tobacco, tar, and graphite, superbly concentrated and dense on the palate but balanced and shapely at the same time and with a noble austerity and grip on the finish which resembles the best of Bordeaux. The wine is a sure bet for another two decades of superb drinking. Drink date: 2006-2026. Score - 96. (Daniel Thomases, robertparker.com, April 23, 2006)