Antinori

The Antinori family has been in the wine business since 1385, remaining family-owned throughout. Today it is directed by Marchese Piero Antinori, a tireless ambassador for his company and Italian wines in general, and also a dynamic moderniser. His Tignanello, the first ‘Super Tuscan' led to a revolution in Italy's fine wine industry. The site adds value by including excellent maps, technical information, photo-journals and more. Navigation is easy using the panel in the left-hand frame, though the number of information panels that pop up in separate little windows can be confusing.


SPECIAL FEATURES


Company Profile provides good background information, but hidden away behind text hotspots are some very nice little jewels. Behind the highlighted words Tuscany and Umbria for example, lies a lovely map of the region, with all of Antinori's estates pinpointed. Click on any one for an introduction to the land and the wines.

History reveals the pride Antinori takes in his noble family, traced in this timeline all the way back to 1180.


Mondo Antinori or The World of Antinori, is the colourfully illustrated story of the family, the business, their interests and their homeland. It is nicely told.

Estates catalogues all of Antinori's numerous vineyard holdings through active maps which, when clicked, reveal further levels of detail including varieties planted, areas under vine and tasting notes for wines.

Wines lists all of Antinori's extensive catalogue. Click on any one and a small window pops up showing a selection of vintages, Choose one, and you will see a label image and comprehensive information on the wine.

Recipes come from Antinori's famous restaurant in Florence, the Cantinetta Antinori. This is nicely presented: the four seasons are displayed, click on one, say ‘Summer' for example, and a complete summer menu is displayed with full recipe details.


OTHER FEATURES


Includes a clickable map of Distribution where you can find the UK agent for Antinori, who will supply you with local stockists. Related Links takes you to the Web sites for other wineries in which Antinori has an interest, like the Napa Valley-based Atlas Peak, who also grow Italian varieties.