At a glance

Producer

Tenuta San Guido

Region

Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (85%), Cabernet Franc (15%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$250 - $300 (retail pricing as of 2024 from Wine-Searcher average and major merchants)

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cassis, dark cherry, graphite, cedar, and subtle mint with underlying tobacco and mineral notes. Firm tannins and dense core but still revealing youthful austerity.

Evolution: With time, tannins will soften, fruit layers will become more complex, tertiary notes like leather, truffle, cigar box, and earth will develop, and the texture will gain silkiness.

At peak: At peak, the wine will offer a nuanced bouquet with integration of fruit and savory notes, plush but balanced tannins, and a harmonious finish of great length.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, medium-plus acidity providing freshness and aging support

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, finely grained tannins with significant grip that will soften over the next 5-8 years

Alcohol

Moderate to elevated (around 14-14.5%), well integrated with the wine's body

Aging potential

At least 20-25 years of high-quality aging potential from vintage (2019 through ~2044)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2032 to 2056

Optimal window

2028 to 2059

Current status

Needs additional aging to reach full maturity

Current condition

Structured and tannic with ripe fruit evident; primary aromas beginning to integrate but youthful austerity remains

The 2019 Sassicaia is a powerful, structured vintage requiring extended bottle aging to fully harmonize its components. The peak window (early 2030s to late 2030s) reflects the period when tannins soften, acidity remains lively, and complex tertiary aromas emerge, resulting in optimal aromatic complexity, balance, and mouthfeel. Post-peak gradual decline will occur beyond 2040 as fruit fades and tertiary notes dominate.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats (lamb, beef), game such as venison, hearty stews, and mature hard cheeses (Parmigiano-Reggiano, aged Pecorino). As the wine matures, it also complements truffle dishes, mushroom risotto, and rich Italian cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften the firm tannins and open the complex aromatic profile, especially if consumed before peak maturity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Minimized chemical inputs, careful canopy management, water conservation efforts, and wildlife preservation on estate

Tenuta San Guido maintains a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture respecting terroir health, which positively affects long-term vineyard vitality and wine quality.