When you think of Bolgheri DOC, your mind often goes straight to Cabernet-driven Super Tuscans. But Tenuta Argentiera shows there’s more to the region than power and fame. Last year, I had the chance to taste these wines during a virtual session with the winemaker. It was fascinating to hear about the vineyards, the soils, and the late-harvest approach, all while tasting from my own home. Even through a screen, it was clear that this estate is a special part of Bolgheri—where freshness, ripe fruit, and structure come together in the bottle.
Where Are We? The Southern Bolgheri DOC
Tenuta Argentiera lies in the southern part of Bolgheri DOC, just minutes from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The estate’s 46 hectares of vineyards sit on slopes between 100 and 250 metres above sea level, with sandy-clay and stony flysch soils influenced by the sea. This combination of soil and coastal climate extends hang-time for the grapes, creating freshness, concentration, and fine acidity even in warmer years.
The name Argentiera comes from the 19th-century silver mines in the area (argento = silver). That legacy of transformation is mirrored in the wines: careful, patient, and expressive of place. Harvest happens later than most in Bolgheri DOC, allowing grapes to reach optimal ripeness while retaining elegance.
A Project of Vision: Leonardo, Nicolò, and the Rise of Argentiera
When Leonardo Raspini arrived in 2001, he planted the first vineyard blocks. In 2009, winemaker and managing director Nicolò Carrara joined, bringing precision and focus. Their aim was clear: to show that Bolgheri DOC wines can be both powerful and elegant.
Merlot plays a central role in Argentiera blends, thanks to soils and exposures that encourage full ripeness while maintaining structure and freshness. Every choice — from vineyard planning to harvest timing — reflects the estate’s philosophy of balance, quality, and expression.
The Stars of the Show
I got the chance to try three wines but for bottles. I was fortunate enought to taste the flagship wine in both vintage that are currently on the market, the 2020 and 2021 side by side to see the clear vintage differences. Let me share my impressions and their technical notes.
Villa Donoratico 2021
Blend & Vinification: Cabernet Sauvignon 45%, Merlot 30 %, Cabernet Franc 15%,
Petit Verdot 10%; aged 12 months in French and Austrian 500-litre tonneaux.
This was a warm vintage, producing a wine with ripe, layered fruit. On the nose: red cherries, blueberries, plums, plus spices like pepper and cinnamon. The palate is ripe and balanced, with integrated alcohol and a long, fruity finish. A wine that is generous yet approachable, showing how careful barrel ageing can enhance structure without masking the fruit.
Bolgheri Superiore 2020
Blend & Vinification: Merlot 48%, Cabernet Sauvignon 45%, Cabernet Franc 7%; aged 14-16 months in 225-litre French oak barrels, partly new.
A cooler year produced a fresh, elegant wine. Aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and mint, combined with softer spices, lead to a juicy and vibrant palate. Tannins are firm but ripe, acidity bright, alcohol fully integrated, finishing long, mineral, and fruity. This vintage highlights finesse over power.
Bolgheri Superiore 2021
Blend & Vinification: Cabernet Sauvignon 48%, Merlot 45%, Cabernet Franc 7%; aged 14-16 months in 225-litre French oak barrels, partly new.
A warmer vintage created a bolder, darker wine. On the nose: ripe black cherries, plums, pepper, and spiciness. Palate shows high tannins and full body, needing a few years to soften. Alcohol is integrated but noticeable, and the finish is long and persistent. This is a wine for patience, promising complexity as it matures.
Scenario 2022
Variety & Vinification: 100% Vermentino; small production of 3000 bottles; aged in ceramic vats and small barrels with 9 months on the fine lees.
Released in September 2024, this wine shows the lighter, fresher side of Argentiera. Aromas: pineapple, grapefruit, melon, white blossom, and citrus peel. Medium-bodied on the palate, with good acidity, integrated alcohol, and a long citrusy finish. Scenario is a bright, textural Vermentino that proves the estate’s versatility beyond reds.
Conclusion
Tasting these wines with the winemaker last year really showed me how much the sea air and hillside vineyards shape Argentiera’s style. The Donoratico 2021 felt warm and generous without being heavy. The Bolgheri Superiore 2020 was elegant and easy to enjoy, while the 2021 reminded me that even in a hot vintage, careful vineyard work and late harvests give wines structure. And the Scenario Vermentino was a nice surprise—fresh, lively, and proof that the estate isn’t just about reds.
If you’re new to Tenuta Argentiera, I’d suggest starting with the Superiore 2020 for a balanced and approachable wine, the 2021 if you want something to cellar, and the Scenario for a refreshing white.
For me, Argentiera is one of Bolgheri DOC’s most interesting estates. The wines don’t try to impress—they just show you what the place can do. I’d love to hear if you’ve tried them and which ones you liked best.
The Author
