At a glance

Producer

Tenuta San Guido

Region

Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$360-$480 USD (release price range; may vary by market)

Tasting profile

Deep ruby color; aromas of cassis, black cherry, violet, cedar, pencil shavings, with subtle mineral and herbal notes.

Evolution: With age, will develop tobacco, leather, truffle, forest floor, and further complexity.

At peak: Velvet-textured, harmonious wine balancing power and finesse, long persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus, lending vibrancy and ageability

Tannins

Firm and prominent, requiring time to integrate

Alcohol

Estimated 13.5%-14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Exceptional; 20+ years in optimal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2040

Optimal window

2027 to 2045

Current status

Recently released; very youthful with strong structure

Current condition

Primary fruit notes dominate, high tannins, fresh acidity

Sassicaia is internationally recognized for its longevity due to its blend, terroir, and classical vinification. The 2022 vintage, despite being in its infancy, will start showing secondary and tertiary complexity by 2030, holding well through the mid-2040s in ideal conditions.

Food pairing

Excellent with aged beef, lamb, rich game, earthy mushroom risotto, and mature cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The firm and prominent tannins require time to integrate, and decanting will help soften the wine and enhance its aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, precision irrigation (if needed), solar energy implementation, biodiversity corridors, natural compost, low-impact packaging, vineyard grassing to reduce soil erosion.

Tenuta San Guido employs advanced sustainable viticulture methods, including biodiversity preservation, reduced agrochemical input, and water-saving measures. While not officially organic or biodynamic, their ICEA and 'VIVA' program participation reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility. Efforts in renewable energy and soil health are notable, but global shipping increases total footprint. More transparency on packaging innovation and third-party carbon auditing would increase the sustainability score.