Tenuta San Guido
About Tenuta San Guido
Tenuta San Guido is much better known by the name of its most famous wine – Sassicaia. An Italian producer located in the Tuscan region of Maremma, it has its own single-estate DOC appellation granted to its flagship label: Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC.
Tenuta San Guido's Wines
Sassicaia is one of Italy's most iconic wines. Touted as the original Super Tuscan wines, this wine was granted an eponymous appellation name - and this says a lot about the vineyard supremacy and its superlative wine quality. The wine is typically a Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend of Tuscany's coastal area of Bolgheri vines. It delivers aromas and flavours of red and black currants, cedar and tobacco, suave tannins and great length.
The estate also produces a second wine Guidalberto; and a third wine, Le Difese.
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Vinous (91)
The 2021 Le Difese is redolent of crushed red berry fruit, rose petal, lavender, spice and sweet pipe tobacco. Medium in body yet nicely layered, the 2021 is impeccably balanced. It is also a sheer delight to taste at this early stage. In many vintages, Le Difese is a fruity, forward wine, but the 2021 has a nervy feeling of classicism that is hugely appealing. It's one of my favorite recent vintages. As it has been for some time, Le Difese is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate and Sangiovese purchased from several properties in Chianti Classico, with the energy of Sangiovese very much driving the feel in this vintage.Inc. GSTSG$278.43 -
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2023 Le Difese includes Sangiovese from Montosoli and Rufina in Chianti Classico in the blend. The nose is fresh and pure, with a juicy, floral perfume of fresh red berries, violets, and wet stone. It’s fresh and inviting on the palate, with the very pretty elegance that the Sangiovese brings with its more defined structure and refreshing feel. This is a fabulous entry wine to drink over the coming 8-10 years.Inc. GSTSG$271.91 -
Inc. GSTSG$10,112.82 -
(1x150cl) 1985Vinous - Antonio Galloni (100)
Conversation gradually halts as the 1985 Sassicaia is poured. It’s the most anticipated wine of the afternoon, and with good reason, as the 1985 is one of the most famous wines ever made, not just in Italy, but anywhere. It's also the wine that put Bolgheri on the map. Literally. Several guests have traveled to New York for this event just to taste the 1985. It does not disappoint. Dark and unctuous, with shocking opulence, the 1985 stains the palate with copious dark fruit. Tobacco, cedar, mocha, licorice and new leather follow. At 40 years of age, the 1985 has not lost a step. From magnum, it is simply magnificent. The true definition of an icon. It is the product of an unusually warm and dry growing season, with elevated temperatures that persisted through to harvest. The 1985 spent 14 days on the skins. Aging was 22 months in barrique (65% new), a mix of 60% Slavonian oak and 40% French oak. I can't think of a better way to end this lunch. What a wine!Inc. GSTSG$10,902.35 -
(1x75cl) 1988
The Wine Independent (99)
The 1988 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia has a dark garnet color and a wider rim than the 1985 but the color is brighter and more youthful. The nose is closed and understated at first, but it opens up with gentle smoke and hints of violet and roses. It reminds me of smoky bonfires in the distant countryside with a hint of autumn leaves on its breath as well as summer flowers. There’s even more substance in the middle of 1988 than the 1985 but the wine is very balanced, classy, and controlled, and there is a vibrant acidity at the core of this wine which lingers to the finish. This is a super-harmonious wine with sublime finesse and understatement. It is just beautiful! Both the 1985 and the 1988 are exceptionally beautiful wines but the 1988 was the preferred style of Giacomo Tachis and the Incisa della Rocchetta family. This one is drinking beautifully now but it shows no signs of getting old.Inc. GSTSG$996.53 -
(1x75cl) 1990
Wine Advocate (93)
This is a beautiful wine that has passed the test of time with flying colors. The 1990 Sassicaia is a thrilling expression that opens to succulent darkness and deep layers of ripe fruit opulence. Dried blackberry, plum and black currant keep the fruit profile high. Background notes of cumin, exotic spice and cured tobacco add power and weight. Lighter tones of balsam herb and crushed mineral are important components of the wine's elegance. The mouthfeel is structured and richly textured, but balanced by its acidity. Back when Robert Parker first reviewed this wine in 1994, he predicted that it would last through the first decade of the 21st century. Given how well the wine is showing now, it's safe to extend that drinking window even further.Inc. GSTSG$906.06 -
Wine Advocate (88)
This is the first vintage that bears the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC appellation. In fact, the 1994 Bolgheri Sassicaia represents the first edition of the first single-winery denomination in Italy and this special distinction has never again been duplicated. Furthermore, this release has never been formally reviewed in Robert Parker Wine Advocate. My impression is that the oak integration is less successful in this effort. There is a moment of hollowness on the mid-palate that is subsequently followed by dry and dusty oak tannins. There are few fruit remnants of prune and dried cherry, but promising more than that is a stretch. If you have a bottle, drink it sooner rather than later.Inc. GSTSG$1,461.52 -
Wine Advocate (91)
The 1995 Bolgheri Sassicaia still holds court, thank you very much. It reminds me of a grande dame, or a woman of influence and sophistication who lights up the room thanks to her expertly delivered, albeit antiquated charm. The wine's aged evolution is evident as the bouquet releases sure aromas of dried fruit, old spice, saffron and cola. I can't say the aromas reach perfect equilibrium, because they don't. There is a muddled fruit note in there too that subtracts from its purity. The mouthfeel is svelte and lean with finely polished and silky tannins. In fact, the wine's texture shows precision and elegance. Pretty menthol notes appear on the long finish.Inc. GSTSG$8,147.79 -
(1x150cl) 1996
Decanter (98)
Am loving that tingle of tannins that I am now getting, just beautiful. The florality is heightened, with roses and redcurrant leaf, soft white truffles, and the most beautiful rolling tobacco. Supremely elegant, a masculine wine but one that is in full ‘holding open the door’ mode. A nose that keeps on opening up, pausing to allow you to catch up. We are in libraries, secret passages, you feel the history of the building in this wine. You feel that it is a testament to its time. Gorgeous, makes you smile with joy at how good great wine can be. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.Inc. GSTSG$1,200.64 -
(12x75cl) 1999
Jancis Robinson (18)
Deep garnet and very little sign of age in the colour. Some cedary freshness and a touch of old polished furniture. Dark cherry and still has some cassis. Very slight touch of coffee. Rich, smooth chocolate texture but it lightens up to a refined finish. Still has great balance and length and finishes with that mouthwatering freshness that is, for me, Sassicaia’s hallmark. Lots of complexity.Inc. GSTSG$8,041.98 -
(6x75cl) 2000
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (95)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep, bright red-ruby. Aromas of ripe red cherry, dark plum and kirsch are complicated by sexy woodsmoke, eucalyptus and bay leaf. Silky and rather lush, with considerable sweetness and creaminess to its ripe, sweet flavours of cassis, blackberry jelly and ripe black plum. Finishes with fine-grained tannins and lingering notes of minerals, herbs, dried flowers and smoke. Displays lovely balance and good length on the rich, seamless, creamy-ripe finish, which exhibits a lingering menthol note that reminded me of a Napa cabernet. The 2000 vintage was a warm one, especially in August, with some varieties such as merlot reaching high sugar levels before full polyphenolic maturity was achieved. However, the combination of a cooler microclimate and old cabernet vines allowed Tenuta San Guido to make a better wine than many on the Tuscan Coast this year.Inc. GSTSG$3,159.32 -
(12x75cl) 2001
Decanter (99)
Clearly stronger and richer in colour than the 2002, with a wonderful nose, you feel the older Cabernet coming through on this now, merging together with warming spice. A slow teasing buildup of tannic power over the palate, where the flavours begin softly, then tighten. Some animal leathery notes, certainly, but fresh clean leather not Brett, this is a powerful wine, full of hedonism and optimism. The fruit is rich wild strawberries and raspberry coulis, exotic, cinnamon spicing, but not overblown because a grip of salinity comes in on the finish. A great wine, still young. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.Inc. GSTSG$9,376.09 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90+)
(80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc): Medium saturated ruby-red. Fresh aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, herbs and mocha. Intense flavors of minty blackberry and cedar, complicated by leather and minerals and a hint of tomato paste. This has filled out considerably with time in bottle and now shows less of the green edges that were apparent a few years ago. Another very good example of how lesser vintages of Sassicaia improve markedly with time; I probably underrated this wine in my initial evaluation. Though 2002 was a horrific, rain-plagued vintage, insiders know that it rained less in Bolgheri than in other parts of Tuscany, and to Incisa della Rocchetta?s credit, a whopping 40% of the final wine was declassified, so there?s less Sassicaia to go around from this vintage.Inc. GSTSG$3,301.02 -
(12x75cl) 2004
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book.Inc. GSTSG$7,163.39 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book.Inc. GSTSG$7,413.40 -
(12x75cl) 2005
Wine Spectator (94)
Dark ruby in color, showing aromas of currant, new oak and fresh herbs, with hints of spices. Full-bodied, with very chewy tannins and an outstanding concentration of fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Needs plenty of bottle age. Best after 2012. 20,000 cases made. -JSInc. GSTSG$5,419.39 -
Decanter (99)
To be honest I gave the Sassicaia 1985 a 100 points at the same tasting, but those notes have already been published, and it’s a vintage that has been celebrated plenty of times. Both bottles were from one of the standout tastings of the year – in Rome, a vertical of Sassicaia dating back over five decades. This 2006 has guts and glory, there is stuffing here. The exotic heat comes through like a pan-seared filet steak, nothing more than a flash fire that gives way to succulence. More exoticism with the dancing array of flavours, from plums, damson and spices to forest fruits and heather then the menthol kicks comes in. You just want to linger over this glass, pick apart the individual flavours and get to understand what it is saying.Inc. GSTSG$3,545.14 -
Wine Enthusiast (95)
This iconic Italian wine from Bolgheri's landmark Sassicaia vineyard (characterized by little rocks, or "sassi") offers an elegant bouquet comprised in equal measure by mineral, fruit and spice nuances. The wine consists of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc and the finish is long, smooth and very fine. This is an ageworthy wine that should not be opened before 2018.Inc. GSTSG$2,592.52 -
(1x150cl) 2008
The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.Inc. GSTSG$1,120.32 -
(1x300cl) 2008The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.Inc. GSTSG$2,578.55 -
The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.Inc. GSTSG$3,121.17 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.Inc. GSTSG$5,707.11 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.Inc. GSTSG$922.66 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.Inc. GSTSG$2,818.13 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.Inc. GSTSG$4,896.19 -
(1x150cl) 2010
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.Inc. GSTSG$949.19 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.Inc. GSTSG$2,892.27 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2011 Sassicaia, from magnum, has aged exceptionally well, certainly far better than I expected. Aromatic and wonderfully vibrant, the 2011 offers up an enticing mix of red cherry/plum fruit, dried flowers, tobacco, mocha and crushed autumn leaves. The warm, dry growing season was tempered by cooler evening temperatures toward the end of the season that were quite helpful in moderating the heat. The 2011 is so expressive, an absolute delight today.Inc. GSTSG$2,802.91 -
Wine Enthusiast (99)
One of Italy's most iconic bottlings, the 2012 Sassicaia is drop-dead gorgeous. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc, it boasts sensations of blue flowers, cedar, juicy red currants, ripe raspberries, white pepper and a balsamic note. Structured, radiant and loaded with finesse, it delivers everything you'd expect from a world-class wine and more. Drink 2018–2032.Inc. GSTSG$2,456.27 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2013 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia was one of the stars of this vertical for me and a big surprise. It is just so graceful and harmonious. The aromas and flavors are brighter and in sharper focus and the tannins are even more seamless than before. Carlo Paoli told me that he also loves this vintage - the weather conditions were so good, with no excess of heat or rain. As he says, "Everything was slow, calm and beautiful." The 2013 Sassicaia reflects this ease. The palate has a lovely combination of a velvety texture, with just the right weight, and thrilling acidity. The fine tannins almost disappear on the finish.Inc. GSTSG$4,885.29
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Vinous (91)
The 2021 Le Difese is redolent of crushed red berry fruit, rose petal, lavender, spice and sweet pipe tobacco. Medium in body yet nicely layered, the 2021 is impeccably balanced. It is also a sheer delight to taste at this early stage. In many vintages, Le Difese is a fruity, forward wine, but the 2021 has a nervy feeling of classicism that is hugely appealing. It's one of my favorite recent vintages. As it has been for some time, Le Difese is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate and Sangiovese purchased from several properties in Chianti Classico, with the energy of Sangiovese very much driving the feel in this vintage.In BondSG$200.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2023 Le Difese includes Sangiovese from Montosoli and Rufina in Chianti Classico in the blend. The nose is fresh and pure, with a juicy, floral perfume of fresh red berries, violets, and wet stone. It’s fresh and inviting on the palate, with the very pretty elegance that the Sangiovese brings with its more defined structure and refreshing feel. This is a fabulous entry wine to drink over the coming 8-10 years.In BondSG$196.00 -
In BondSG$9,260.00
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(1x150cl) 1985
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (100)
Conversation gradually halts as the 1985 Sassicaia is poured. It’s the most anticipated wine of the afternoon, and with good reason, as the 1985 is one of the most famous wines ever made, not just in Italy, but anywhere. It's also the wine that put Bolgheri on the map. Literally. Several guests have traveled to New York for this event just to taste the 1985. It does not disappoint. Dark and unctuous, with shocking opulence, the 1985 stains the palate with copious dark fruit. Tobacco, cedar, mocha, licorice and new leather follow. At 40 years of age, the 1985 has not lost a step. From magnum, it is simply magnificent. The true definition of an icon. It is the product of an unusually warm and dry growing season, with elevated temperatures that persisted through to harvest. The 1985 spent 14 days on the skins. Aging was 22 months in barrique (65% new), a mix of 60% Slavonian oak and 40% French oak. I can't think of a better way to end this lunch. What a wine!In BondSG$9,985.00 -
(1x75cl) 1988
The Wine Independent (99)
The 1988 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia has a dark garnet color and a wider rim than the 1985 but the color is brighter and more youthful. The nose is closed and understated at first, but it opens up with gentle smoke and hints of violet and roses. It reminds me of smoky bonfires in the distant countryside with a hint of autumn leaves on its breath as well as summer flowers. There’s even more substance in the middle of 1988 than the 1985 but the wine is very balanced, classy, and controlled, and there is a vibrant acidity at the core of this wine which lingers to the finish. This is a super-harmonious wine with sublime finesse and understatement. It is just beautiful! Both the 1985 and the 1988 are exceptionally beautiful wines but the 1988 was the preferred style of Giacomo Tachis and the Incisa della Rocchetta family. This one is drinking beautifully now but it shows no signs of getting old.In BondSG$906.00 -
(1x75cl) 1990
Wine Advocate (93)
This is a beautiful wine that has passed the test of time with flying colors. The 1990 Sassicaia is a thrilling expression that opens to succulent darkness and deep layers of ripe fruit opulence. Dried blackberry, plum and black currant keep the fruit profile high. Background notes of cumin, exotic spice and cured tobacco add power and weight. Lighter tones of balsam herb and crushed mineral are important components of the wine's elegance. The mouthfeel is structured and richly textured, but balanced by its acidity. Back when Robert Parker first reviewed this wine in 1994, he predicted that it would last through the first decade of the 21st century. Given how well the wine is showing now, it's safe to extend that drinking window even further.In BondSG$823.00 -
Wine Advocate (88)
This is the first vintage that bears the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC appellation. In fact, the 1994 Bolgheri Sassicaia represents the first edition of the first single-winery denomination in Italy and this special distinction has never again been duplicated. Furthermore, this release has never been formally reviewed in Robert Parker Wine Advocate. My impression is that the oak integration is less successful in this effort. There is a moment of hollowness on the mid-palate that is subsequently followed by dry and dusty oak tannins. There are few fruit remnants of prune and dried cherry, but promising more than that is a stretch. If you have a bottle, drink it sooner rather than later.In BondSG$1,325.00 -
Wine Advocate (91)
The 1995 Bolgheri Sassicaia still holds court, thank you very much. It reminds me of a grande dame, or a woman of influence and sophistication who lights up the room thanks to her expertly delivered, albeit antiquated charm. The wine's aged evolution is evident as the bouquet releases sure aromas of dried fruit, old spice, saffron and cola. I can't say the aromas reach perfect equilibrium, because they don't. There is a muddled fruit note in there too that subtracts from its purity. The mouthfeel is svelte and lean with finely polished and silky tannins. In fact, the wine's texture shows precision and elegance. Pretty menthol notes appear on the long finish.In BondSG$7,380.00 -
(1x150cl) 1996
Decanter (98)
Am loving that tingle of tannins that I am now getting, just beautiful. The florality is heightened, with roses and redcurrant leaf, soft white truffles, and the most beautiful rolling tobacco. Supremely elegant, a masculine wine but one that is in full ‘holding open the door’ mode. A nose that keeps on opening up, pausing to allow you to catch up. We are in libraries, secret passages, you feel the history of the building in this wine. You feel that it is a testament to its time. Gorgeous, makes you smile with joy at how good great wine can be. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.In BondSG$1,085.00 -
(12x75cl) 1999
Jancis Robinson (18)
Deep garnet and very little sign of age in the colour. Some cedary freshness and a touch of old polished furniture. Dark cherry and still has some cassis. Very slight touch of coffee. Rich, smooth chocolate texture but it lightens up to a refined finish. Still has great balance and length and finishes with that mouthwatering freshness that is, for me, Sassicaia’s hallmark. Lots of complexity.In BondSG$7,275.00 -
(6x75cl) 2000
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (95)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep, bright red-ruby. Aromas of ripe red cherry, dark plum and kirsch are complicated by sexy woodsmoke, eucalyptus and bay leaf. Silky and rather lush, with considerable sweetness and creaminess to its ripe, sweet flavours of cassis, blackberry jelly and ripe black plum. Finishes with fine-grained tannins and lingering notes of minerals, herbs, dried flowers and smoke. Displays lovely balance and good length on the rich, seamless, creamy-ripe finish, which exhibits a lingering menthol note that reminded me of a Napa cabernet. The 2000 vintage was a warm one, especially in August, with some varieties such as merlot reaching high sugar levels before full polyphenolic maturity was achieved. However, the combination of a cooler microclimate and old cabernet vines allowed Tenuta San Guido to make a better wine than many on the Tuscan Coast this year.In BondSG$2,845.00 -
(12x75cl) 2001
Decanter (99)
Clearly stronger and richer in colour than the 2002, with a wonderful nose, you feel the older Cabernet coming through on this now, merging together with warming spice. A slow teasing buildup of tannic power over the palate, where the flavours begin softly, then tighten. Some animal leathery notes, certainly, but fresh clean leather not Brett, this is a powerful wine, full of hedonism and optimism. The fruit is rich wild strawberries and raspberry coulis, exotic, cinnamon spicing, but not overblown because a grip of salinity comes in on the finish. A great wine, still young. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.In BondSG$8,495.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90+)
(80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc): Medium saturated ruby-red. Fresh aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, herbs and mocha. Intense flavors of minty blackberry and cedar, complicated by leather and minerals and a hint of tomato paste. This has filled out considerably with time in bottle and now shows less of the green edges that were apparent a few years ago. Another very good example of how lesser vintages of Sassicaia improve markedly with time; I probably underrated this wine in my initial evaluation. Though 2002 was a horrific, rain-plagued vintage, insiders know that it rained less in Bolgheri than in other parts of Tuscany, and to Incisa della Rocchetta?s credit, a whopping 40% of the final wine was declassified, so there?s less Sassicaia to go around from this vintage.In BondSG$2,975.00 -
(12x75cl) 2004
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book.In BondSG$6,465.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)
(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book.In BondSG$6,730.00 -
(12x75cl) 2005
Wine Spectator (94)
Dark ruby in color, showing aromas of currant, new oak and fresh herbs, with hints of spices. Full-bodied, with very chewy tannins and an outstanding concentration of fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Needs plenty of bottle age. Best after 2012. 20,000 cases made. -JSIn BondSG$4,865.00 -
Decanter (99)
To be honest I gave the Sassicaia 1985 a 100 points at the same tasting, but those notes have already been published, and it’s a vintage that has been celebrated plenty of times. Both bottles were from one of the standout tastings of the year – in Rome, a vertical of Sassicaia dating back over five decades. This 2006 has guts and glory, there is stuffing here. The exotic heat comes through like a pan-seared filet steak, nothing more than a flash fire that gives way to succulence. More exoticism with the dancing array of flavours, from plums, damson and spices to forest fruits and heather then the menthol kicks comes in. You just want to linger over this glass, pick apart the individual flavours and get to understand what it is saying.In BondSG$3,195.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (95)
This iconic Italian wine from Bolgheri's landmark Sassicaia vineyard (characterized by little rocks, or "sassi") offers an elegant bouquet comprised in equal measure by mineral, fruit and spice nuances. The wine consists of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc and the finish is long, smooth and very fine. This is an ageworthy wine that should not be opened before 2018.In BondSG$2,325.00 -
(1x150cl) 2008
The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.In BondSG$1,010.00 -
(1x300cl) 2008
The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.In BondSG$2,330.00 -
The Wine Independent (97)
For Tenuta San Guido, "2008 was a beautiful year. Hot but not dry and not too hot," comments Carlo Paoli, general manager and head of winemaking. This 2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is still tight and youthful, and it is just starting to develop a garnet rim. The aromas were slow to reveal themselves but after 30 minutes, some notes of juniper, "macchia mediterranea", mint, and sweet tobacco appear. The texture is sublimely soft, round, and velvety - not heavy, but melting - with lots of juicy, vibrant acidity. With this vintage, the tannins continue in their refinement.In BondSG$2,810.00 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.In BondSG$5,125.00 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.In BondSG$828.00 -
James Suckling (98)
An extremely rich and ripe wine with currant, cherry and balsamic aromas. Hints of leather. Follows through on the finish. Full body, round and velvety tannins that are reserved and beautiful. Sweet and sour. Savory, too. Drink or hold. This has a long life ahead of it.In BondSG$2,530.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.In BondSG$4,385.00 -
(1x150cl) 2010
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.In BondSG$853.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
This supremely elegant and age-worthy Sassicaia opens with an intense bouquet of black cherry, Mediterranean herbs, blue flower, cedar and leather aromas. Powerful but graceful, the palate delivers a vibrant core of black cherry accented with white pepper, mineral and balsamic notes alongside youthful but polished tannins and vibrant acidity. It's not as exuberant as some of its counterparts, but it may outlive all the other Bolgheri 2010s. Drink 2018–2040.In BondSG$2,600.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2011 Sassicaia, from magnum, has aged exceptionally well, certainly far better than I expected. Aromatic and wonderfully vibrant, the 2011 offers up an enticing mix of red cherry/plum fruit, dried flowers, tobacco, mocha and crushed autumn leaves. The warm, dry growing season was tempered by cooler evening temperatures toward the end of the season that were quite helpful in moderating the heat. The 2011 is so expressive, an absolute delight today.In BondSG$2,520.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (99)
One of Italy's most iconic bottlings, the 2012 Sassicaia is drop-dead gorgeous. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc, it boasts sensations of blue flowers, cedar, juicy red currants, ripe raspberries, white pepper and a balsamic note. Structured, radiant and loaded with finesse, it delivers everything you'd expect from a world-class wine and more. Drink 2018–2032.In BondSG$2,200.00 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2013 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia was one of the stars of this vertical for me and a big surprise. It is just so graceful and harmonious. The aromas and flavors are brighter and in sharper focus and the tannins are even more seamless than before. Carlo Paoli told me that he also loves this vintage - the weather conditions were so good, with no excess of heat or rain. As he says, "Everything was slow, calm and beautiful." The 2013 Sassicaia reflects this ease. The palate has a lovely combination of a velvety texture, with just the right weight, and thrilling acidity. The fine tannins almost disappear on the finish.In BondSG$4,375.00
