The Wine
Sassicaia means “the place of many stones,” and refers to the region’s gravel soil. The original vineyards have a southwest exposure with extensive sun and maritime breezes that create robust vegetation. Grapes are handpicked, destemmed and crushed before fermenting with natural yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged in French oak barriques, then refined in bottle before release. Sassicaia’s success prompted the Italian government to grant the wine its own appellation, Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC, beginning with the 1994 vintage.
Winemaking
GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon 15% Cabernet Franc
APPELLATION: Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC
PH: 3.47 ACIDITY: 6.05 g/l
ABV: 14%
AGING: At the end of the malolactic fermentation, the wine is placed in French oak barrels, (2/3rds new wood and the rest, first and second passage) where it spent a period of aging of 24 months.
Tasting notes
The palate is lifted and bright, the finish is polished and long, and the wine skips over any heaviness on the mid-palate. The bouquet is especially intriguing with a very lively plummy fruit element that is enhanced by baker's chocolate, pepper spice, iron ore, caramel and pie crust. There is also a green character that adds positively to the bouquet with aniseed, tea leaf, soya, menthol rub and black olive. The fruit maturity is spot-on with no elements that feel over or underripe.
Country of Origin:
Italy
Region / Appelation / Cru:
Tuscany / Bolgheri Sassicaia
Certification:
DOC
Grape Varieties:
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc
Vintage:
2019
Alcohol:
14%
Producer:
Tenuta San Guido
Ratings:
Wine Enthusiast (99pts) - "Enticing aromas of blue flower, cassis, camphor and spice are front and center in this stunning red. The lithe, savory palate features black currant, red plum and star anise while tobacco notes linger on the long finish. Elegant, polished tannins and bright acidity keep it beautifully balanced and focused. Drink 2025–2044."
Wine Spectator (98pts)- "Supple and beautifully defined, with black cherry, black currant and blackberry fruit augmented by tobacco, iron and thyme. Firmly structured, tightening up as this lingers with an aftertaste of dark fruit, graphite and spice. Shows a sense of elegance as well as power and intensity. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2024 through 2045. 25,000 cases made, 5,000 cases imported."
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs well with fine-aged cheeses, and with game or braised meats