Answer by: Becky Sue Epstein
If the wines have been stored perfectly (and you can prove that) they are worth a fair amount. Retail prices range from nearly $100 to $350 and up -- though of course that's not what you would get if you sold them.
The fact that they are signed would be a bonus for an Antinori collector, so you might think of selling them at auction, or at a local charitable auction (though they don't always take single bottles). And, once again, you have to provide cellaring information, etc.
The wines should be very drinkable now, so you might simply want to enjoy them with your favorite Tuscan menu.
About the Expert:Becky Sue Epstein is an experienced lifestyle writer and editor, concentrating on wine and spirits. For the past twenty years she has provided food, wine and spirits coverage for local, regional, and national publications including Art & Antiques, Food & Wine, Luxury Golf & Travel, Wine Spectator and Yankee Magazine.
She began her career as a restaurant reviewer for The Los Angeles Times while working in film and television during the 1980s and early 1990s. Having spent several years living abroad, Epstein also writes about travel and entertaining; she is considered a dessert wine expert as well.
Currently based in New England, Epstein holds the position of Senior Editor, Wine & Spirits for the national lifestyle publication Intermezzo Magazine. She is a contributor to Sante Magazine, Beverage Business and other trade and consumer publications. Visit Becky Sue Epstein's website: Becky Sue Epstein
Answer by: Neil Courtier
Very nice too! 1997 was a super vintage & quite ripe / accessible from memory. With food - 'The Italian Way', I would suggest that they will drink very well now, but have the backbone for further development.
About the Expert:With a background in luxury hotels and restaurants, then more recently in education, my passion for wine is combined with my experience and qualifications, such as the Wine and Spirit Education Trust Diploma, and the Certificate in Education for Lecturers. Wine as a subject should be approachable, enjoyable, informative and fun! Our events are always designed to increase the confidence of individuals, and make wine knowledge available to all. Visit Neil Courtier's website: Grape Sense
Answer by: Roger C. 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.
About the Expert:Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade, and he last served as a senior executive with a major national importer. In 2006, he launched Millesima USA, a retail entity affiliated with Europe's leading fine wine mail order company. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993, and he has been very active as an educator and speaker at wine festivals and conferences. He hosts a community television program entitled "Wine's Simple Pleasures," and is currently working on a book of original recipes and wine pairing solutions. Visit Roger C. Bohmrich, MW's website: MILLESIMA USA LLC
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