At a glance

Producer

Tenuta San Guido

Region

Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with small amount of Cabernet Franc and possibly other Bordeaux varieties)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$448–$850 USD

Tasting profile

Complex bouquet of dried dark berries, cedar, tobacco, leather, earthy forest floor, and subtle graphite. On palate: evolved cassis, spice, herbaceous notes with smooth, silky tannins and lingering minerality.

Evolution: Over next 5 years, tertiary aromas like truffle and forest floor intensify, tannins continue softening, fruit fades gently.

At peak: Balanced tertiary characteristics with graceful texture, nuanced complexity, and lingering finish offering excellent drinking pleasure.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to Medium-high, providing freshness and vitality

Tannins

Moderate, well-integrated and softened through age

Alcohol

Moderate to slightly elevated (~13-13.5%), well integrated

Aging potential

25-35+ years from vintage, can remain enjoyable through 2030s in ideal cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2025

Optimal window

2010 to 2030

Current status

Still Drinkable, Approaching or Nearing Peak

Current condition

The 1995 Sassicaia is mature and showing developed tertiary notes with softened tannins, though still retaining good structure and freshness. It remains balanced with depth and complexity.

Peak occurs 20-30 years post vintage as fruit integrates fully with tertiary development resulting in complex aroma layers and textural harmony. Beyond peak, freshness may diminish and wine moves gradually toward decline with fading aromatics and drying tannins.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, wild game (venison, duck), aged hard cheeses, mushroom risotto, truffle dishes, and rich stews. As wine evolves, deeper earthy flavors complement mushroom or game sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow evolved aromas to open and any sediment to settle, softening tannins and enhancing complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on biodiversity, careful water management, and limited chemical inputs in vineyard

Tenuta San Guido emphasizes environmental stewardship but comprehensive formal sustainability certification is more recent; 1995 vintage predates many current standards.