Frequently Asked Questions
The Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri stands as an icon among Super Tuscan wines, embodying the pinnacle of Italian winemaking excellence. Born from the stony soils of Bolgheri, this legendary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc showcases intense flavors of red currant, blackberry, and blueberry, complemented by notes of cedar, Mediterranean herbs, cinnamon, and a touch of spice. Its impeccable balance of refined tannins and vibrant acidity ensures remarkable aging potential, while maintaining a freshness and elegance that captivates the palate. Crafted on the historic Tenuta San Guido estate, Sassicaia carries a storied legacy, being the first wine to earn its own appellation, Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC. Ideal for collectors and connoisseurs, this wine is the epitome of sophistication, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or aged cheeses.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC, this wine is a meticulous blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. The vineyards, nestled at altitudes up to 400 meters in Tuscany's Bolgheri region, are defined by stony soils that inspired its name (*Sassicaia* means "stony field") and a Mediterranean climate with cool nights and hot, dry summers. The winemaking process is equally precise, involving hand-harvesting, fermentation in stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts, and a maceration period to extract maximum character. Aged for 24 months in French oak barrels (a mix of new and used wood), followed by further refinement in the bottle, it develops its signature elegance and complexity over time.Tasting Notes
Sassicaia captivates with its deep ruby hue and an intoxicating aroma of red and dark fruits, such as blackcurrant, blueberry, and blackberry, intertwined with subtle layers of cedar, spice, and leather. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of freshness, structured tannins, and concentrated flavors of sour cherry, dark cocoa, and balsamic undertones. The mid-palate reveals refined notes of pomegranate, chocolate, and stony minerality, leading to a long, crisp, and elegant finish.What Makes It Special
Sassicaia pioneered the concept of Super Tuscans by breaking traditional winemaking conventions in Italy. Its Bordeaux-inspired blend, crafted by Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, marked a radical departure from the lighter traditional Sangiovese-based wines of Tuscany. Recognized with its unique DOC designation in 1994, Sassicaia stands as the only Italian wine to possess its own appellation. Its exceptional quality is attributed to Bolgheri's unique terroir. The stony, well-draining soils, combined with ample sunlight and Mediterranean breezes, create the perfect environment to nurture Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to perfection. The passion behind its creation, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, ensures consistency and longevity, making every vintage a collectible masterpiece.How to Enjoy
Sassicaia's versatility offers a plethora of ways to savor its grandeur:- Pairing: Perfect with red meats, game dishes, and hard, aged cheeses. Its vibrant acidity and rich complexity also make it an excellent partner for hearty pasta dishes or truffled risottos.
- Serving Temperature: Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) to allow its complex aromas to unfold.
- Aging Potential: Though enjoyable in its youth, Sassicaia thrives with cellaring. Most vintages develop beautifully over 15-30 years, gaining depth and subtlety with time.
A Legacy in Every Bottle
The Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri is more than wine; it's a testament to the vision and dedication of its creators. Each sip tells a story of innovation, tradition, and excellence, making it a prized possession for collectors and a must-experience for wine enthusiasts worldwide.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri wine?
Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia is a world-renowned red wine produced in the Bolgheri Sassicaia appellation of Tuscany, Italy. It is crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon and blended with Cabernet Franc, following the Bordeaux tradition. This Super Tuscan wine is celebrated for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential.
What makes Sassicaia unique among wines?
Sassicaia's uniqueness lies in its terroir-specific designation, Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC, which was created exclusively for this wine. Its vineyards are planted on gravelly soils, which inspired the name “Sassicaia” (from Italian "sasso," meaning stone). The wine combines refinement with rich flavors of ripe dark fruits, balsamic notes, and balanced acidity, showcasing the exceptional microclimate and soil of the region.
What is the aging process of Sassicaia?
Sassicaia is aged for 24 months, with at least 18 months in French oak barriques. The oak barrels, sourced from the Massif Central of France, are a combination of new and previously used casks, imparting subtle tannins while allowing the wine to develop complexity.
What are the tasting notes of Sassicaia?
Sassicaia exhibits aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, cedar, and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it offers elegant layers of dark fruit, fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, savory finish. Its structure makes it ideal for long-term aging.
What food pairs best with Sassicaia?
Sassicaia pairs beautifully with rich dishes such as Florentine-style steak, braised meats, game, and aged cheeses. Its bold flavors and depth complement hearty Tuscan cuisine, particularly dishes that highlight beef or lamb.
Can Sassicaia be aged?
Yes, Sassicaia has excellent aging potential. It develops greater complexity with time, enhancing its earthy and tertiary notes. Proper storage in a cool, dark, and temperature-controlled environment will ensure it matures gracefully over decades.
Why is Sassicaia called a “Super Tuscan”?
Sassicaia is considered the first "Super Tuscan," a term coined to describe high-quality wines made in Tuscany using non-traditional grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, instead of Sangiovese. It gained international fame in 1978 when a 6-year-old Sassicaia outperformed Bordeaux wines in a blind tasting.
What is the best way to serve Sassicaia?
Serve Sassicaia at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting the wine for at least one hour before serving helps aerate it, unlocking its full bouquet and complexity.
Where is Tenuta San Guido located?
Tenuta San Guido is located in the Maremma region of Tuscany, near the Etruscan Coast, in the Bolgheri area. Its vineyards benefit from the Mediterranean climate and a unique combination of clay, limestone, and gravel soils.
Can I visit Tenuta San Guido?
Yes, visits to Tenuta San Guido are possible and often include guided tours of the vineyard, cellars, and wine tastings. It's recommended to book in advance due to high demand. Check with the winery for current availability and schedules.
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