2018 Sassicaia
By Tenuta San Guido
2018 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido
Seduclingly serene, yet surrounded by an aura of quiet authority, the 2018 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido announces itself with an almost tender boldness. Defying the expectations of its younger years, this Italian marvel proves beyond doubt that great wines, much like distinguished individuals, can evolve profoundly with time.
A Masterpiece Molded by the Mediterranean Terroir
The tenacity of the 2018 vintage is indebted to the maritime winds from the Tyrrhenian Sea and the warmth of the Tuscan sun, which fostered a slow and balanced ripening - a subtle ballet between nature and vine which has brought forth a wine of exceptional character. The marine influence is etched into its identity as clearly as the chiseled contours of Tuscany’s landscapes.
The Poetry of Patience and Prudence
Tenuta San Guido sees wisdom in constraint, having held back the bounty of this vintage to truly let it express itself. The result is a sophisticated mélange of ripe blackberry, wild mint, and succulent plum that renders each sip an act of calculated discovery. Its restrained use of French oak allows for an understated yet noticeable hint of spice, which further testifies to this exemplary demonstration of winemaking finesse.
More Than Just a Wine: A Smart Investment
For those seeking out fine wines from Italy as more than just a sensory delight but also a sound investment, the 2018 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido sits atop as one of the most enticing prospects. The 2018 vintage is more than just a wine—it is a symbol of artistry and patience rewarded.
Verdict: A Testament to Elegant Power
When the veil of anticipation is lifted from this fine Italian ambassador, what emerges is an awe-inspiring embodiment of elegance and power—an homage to the gifting weather conditions of 2018. Amid a world ever-hungry for new arrivals, Tenuta San Guido's 2018 Sassicaia serves as a beautiful reminder that some things, much like fine wine investing, are worth the wait.
Market price (HKD)
HK$21,220.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
130.59
Scores and tasting notes
This is a classic vintage of an Italian icon now celebrating its 50th vintage. The Tenuta San Guido 2018 Bolgheri Sassicaia lays out a familiar blueprint that borrows from the proven track record of this landmark estate that extends into the hills just beyond the Tyrrhenian shores of Tuscany. This vintage is crystalline and pure in its delivery, and if you are familiar with previous editions, it is impossible to mistake this wine for anything but Sassicaia. The growing season started off cool and wet but turned to warm and dry conditions comfortably before the harvest. Cabernet Sauvignon with Cabernet Franc in a supporting role deliver a graceful mid-weight texture that holds back style-wise in terms of phenolic density. The wine's careful balance is achieved thanks to the nuanced character of the fruit, the present acidity, the well-managed structure and the contained alcohol. The palate is lifted and bright, the finish is polished and long, and the wine skips over any heaviness on the mid-palate. The bouquet is especially intriguing with a very lively plummy fruit element that is enhanced by baker's chocolate, pepper spice, iron ore, caramel and pie crust. There is also a green character that adds positively to the bouquet with aniseed, tea leaf, soya, menthol rub and black olive. The fruit maturity is spot-on with no elements that feel over or underripe. Overall, the 2018 Sassicaia weighs in with a svelte frame and long persistence. Moreover, it is distinguished by the archetypal elegance and pedigree of the classic vintages of the past. This new release gives you much pleasure to await.
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 14 January 2021