Super Tuscan Wines: Everything You Need to Know

What is in a Super Tuscan?

Super Tuscan wines are typically made from non-traditional grape varieties that are not indigenous to Italy. They often include international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, blended with traditional Italian varieties like Sangiovese. This blend allows winemakers to craft more complex and rich wines, often with robust tannins and vibrant acidity. The term "Super Tuscan" was coined in the early 1970s as a way to describe these wines, which do not conform to the strict DOC or DOCG regulations. Instead, they fall under the IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) classification, allowing more flexibility in production.

 

What is Super Tuscan Similar To?

Super Tuscans are often compared to Bordeaux wines, particularly those from the Médoc region, due to their use of Bordeaux grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The rich, full-bodied profile with complex tannins and a capacity for ageing makes them similar to high-quality Bordeaux blends. Additionally, Super Tuscans can also be compared to New World wines in terms of their bold fruit flavors and innovative winemaking techniques. The versatility and innovation in Super Tuscan wines allow them to stand alongside some of the world's most prestigious wines.

 

What are the 5 Original Super Tuscans?

1. Sassicaia: Created by Tenuta San Guido, Sassicaia is often considered the pioneer of the Super Tuscan movement. It is primarily made from Cabernet Sauvignon and has received international acclaim.

2. Tignanello: Produced by Antinori, Tignanello is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. It was one of the first wines to defy traditional Italian winemaking rules.

3. Ornellaia: Another renowned Super Tuscan, Ornellaia is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, produced by the Tenuta dell'Ornellaia estate.

4. Solaia: Also produced by Antinori, Solaia is a prestigious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Cabernet Franc, known for its depth and elegance.

5. Le Pergole Torte: Crafted by Montevertine, this wine focuses predominantly on Sangiovese, showcasing the potential of this traditional grape in a Super Tuscan style.

 

Is Sassicaia a Super Tuscan?

Yes, Sassicaia is one of the most iconic and original Super Tuscans. Produced by Tenuta San Guido in the Bolgheri region, Sassicaia was first made in the 1960s by Mario Incisa della Rocchetta. It broke away from traditional Tuscan winemaking norms by using primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape variety more commonly associated with Bordeaux. Sassicaia's success helped establish the Super Tuscan category and has consistently received high acclaim from wine critics globally.

 

What is a Cheaper Alternative to Tignanello?

For those seeking a more affordable alternative to Tignanello, consider wines like Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia, Petrolo Galatrona, and Caiarossa. See all wines from Ornellaia.

• Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia: This second wine of Ornellaia is made from the same Bordeaux varietals, offering a taste of the flagship wine's style at a more accessible price.

• Petrolo Galatrona: A 100% Merlot wine that rivals the best of Tuscany, known for its rich, opulent profile and exceptional quality. See all wines from Petrolo.

• Caiarossa: A blend of several international and local grape varieties, this wine is celebrated for its complexity and elegance, making it a great value option. See all wines from Caiarossa.

 

Who Made the First Super Tuscan?

The first Super Tuscan is widely attributed to the creation of Sassicaia by Mario Incisa della Rocchetta in the 1940s, with its first commercial release in 1968. Mario planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in the Bolgheri region, inspired by the Bordeaux wines he admired. Sassicaia’s success and recognition in the 1970s paved the way for other winemakers in Tuscany to experiment with non-traditional grape varieties and winemaking techniques, thus giving rise to the Super Tuscan category.

Are Bolgheri Wines Super Tuscan?

Many Bolgheri wines are considered Super Tuscans, especially those crafted with international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. The Bolgheri region, located in coastal Tuscany, is known for its unique microclimate and fertile soils, which are ideal for these grape varieties. Esteemed wineries such as Tenuta San Guido (producer of Sassicaia), Ornellaia, and Le Macchiole have established Bolgheri as a significant area for producing high-quality Super Tuscans. These wines often combine the structure and elegance of traditional Tuscan wines with the boldness and complexity of Bordeaux-style blends.

 

See all available wines and vintages from Tuscany.

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