I have bottles of 1997 Solia, Tignanello, Guado al Tasso, all signed by Marquesa d' Antinori (just a little extra touch). Are they ready to drink? What is their market value? Your comments/insight appreciated. Thanks. Allan Rae
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
You have three outstanding wines from a great vintage. The fact that they are signed certainly makes them more desirable to a collector, but the added value is difficult to quantify exactly.
The 1997 vintage in Tuscany generally was marked by a long period of heat from summer through September, resulting in very ripe grapes and rich, powerful wines. There is no rush to drink any of the three wines and they can be kept for many more years in a good cellar.
Tignanello 1997 is 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc. It is currently in the range of $110-135 per bottle at auction, and up to $250 at retail if you can find it.
Solaia 1997 is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Current auction value is around $300 per bottle, and the retail goes nearly to $500 in a few stores around the US.
Guado al Tasso 1997 is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 10% Syrah and other grapes. It is priced at about $100-200 retail in a few stores.
