In the lush landscapes of Italy, where tradition weaves through the modern tapestry of industry, two venerable institutions have blended their crafts in a show of grandeur. Maserati, a beacon of automotive excellence, and Marchesi Antinori, an iconic name in winemaking, have unveiled a masterpiece of design and homage – GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello. This unique collaboration marks a pinnacle of luxury, commemorating the rich histories of both brands through a singular automotive creation.
In 1970, the Antinori family, already renowned for their centuries-old wine legacy dating back to 1385, crafted the first bottle of Tignanello. This wine was not just a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes; it was a revolution in a bottle, combining traditional Italian winemaking with innovative aging techniques in barriques. Over the decades, Tignanello has become one of the world’s most acclaimed wines, cherished for its robust flavor and pioneering spirit.
The GranCabrio Tignanello, crafted by Maserati’s Fuoriserie customization program exclusively for Marchesi Antinori, is not merely a car but a tribute on wheels. Painted in “Terra di Tignanello,” a color inspired by the rich, red soil of the Antinori vineyards and the vibrant hues of the wine’s barrels, the car is a testament to the deep connection between the land and its produce. The interior of the GranCabrio is equally bespoke, featuring luxurious leather and Vegea fabric – a vegan leather alternative made from grape skins, embodying sustainability and innovation. The design includes subtle nods to the vineyard, with vine stripe motifs and dark briar wood trims that feature laser-cut details reminiscent of the wine barrels.
This one-of-a-kind GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello will go under the hammer at the prestigious Napa Valley’s Arts for All gala on July 14th. The auction is not just a showcase of unique craftsmanship but also a means of giving back, as proceeds will support arts and education initiatives. This event underlines the commitment of both Maserati and Antinori to fostering community and cultural enrichment.
The GranCabrio Folgore, based on the electric 818-hp model, epitomizes Maserati’s push towards electrification. Equipped with three electric motors and an 83.0-kWh battery pack, the car promises exhilarating performance with a sustainable edge. Its 800-volt architecture allows for rapid charging, ensuring that the GranCabrio is not only powerful but also practical for modern drivers. Despite its historical inspirations, the vehicle offers cutting-edge technology and a driving experience that rivals the best in contemporary automotive design.
2021 marks 50 years since Tignanello first graced the palates of wine aficionados, and it coincides with the 110th anniversary of Maserati – an opportune moment to reflect on the trails blazed by both brands in their respective fields. Maserati’s alignment with Antinori is more than a partnership; it is a confluence of paths paved by passion and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The details of the GranCabrio Tignanello are a tribute to this shared history. From the custom copper-colored badging that reflects the wine’s unique character to the fabric roof that closes over the luxurious interior like a curtain at a theater, every element is carefully considered. The interior’s etched wood and embroidered headrests, which incorporate the Maserati trident and the sun emblem from the Tignanello bottle, are signatures of bespoke craftsmanship.
As this vehicle goes to auction (so it can become one of the most expensive cars in the world, it not only represents a pinnacle of design and heritage but also a forward-looking philosophy. Both Maserati and Antinori have demonstrated that innovation can coexist with tradition, and that luxury can be both exclusive and conscientious. The GranCabrio Tignanello is a celebration of this ethos, a blend of the best from the worlds of wine and automotive design, crafted for connoisseurs of both. ANd can bu surely listed as one of the most beautiful cars ever.
