2003 Sassicaia
By Tenuta San Guido
2003 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido, Bolgheri Superiore
Enter the exquisite world of the 2003 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido - an intriguing and enigmatic embodiment of the prestigious Bolgheri Superiore subregion of Italy. Renowned across the globe as one of Italy's most illustrious wines, this exquisite vintage encapsulates a unique snapshot of a challenging yet rewarding year within the Italian winemaking calendar.
Resilience in adversity, a tale of Tenuta San Guido
2003 was categorized by drought-like conditions and scorching summer heat throughout much of Europe, making it a year which tested the mettle of even the most experienced growers. However, what sets this 2003 Sassicaia apart is just how marvellously it has risen above these hurdles, becoming a dazzling testament to the terroir resilience and winemaking brilliance at Tenuta San Guido.
The mastery lies both in the vineyard and in the winery - in the decision to harvest early ensuring preservation of fruit integrity, and in judicious oak aging to accentuate complexity and endow it with fine cellar longevity. This captivating narrative offers an attractive backdrop to fine wine investors seeking wines with an engaging story.
Fruit intensity meets poised elegance
The wine itself paints an intricate palette of sensual black fruit intensity counterbalanced wonderfully by savoury undertones reminiscent of aromatic herbs and minerality. An undeniable charm lies in its evolving richness over time - rewards for wine connoisseurs who patiently hold onto this prized liquid asset.
The 2003 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido represents not just another addition to a fine wine portfolio but a proud investment into an illustrious chapter within Italian winemaking history. It promises potential appreciation and a gratifying liquid experience - a testament to Tenuta San Guido's enduring commitment towards crafting some of Italy's finest wines in even the most challenging conditions.
To partake in this enchanting vintage is to relish the spirited dance of enduring resilience and impeccable craftsmanship, a performance that encapsulates everything sophisticated wine investors have come to admire in fine wines from Italy.
Market price (USD)
$3,140.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
214.17
Scores and tasting notes
The 2003 Bolgheri Sassicaia is full of unexpected twists and turns. Oddly enough, this vintage offered more overall freshness and balance than the much-celebrated 2004 edition. We all know that 2003 was a very difficult year with scorching hot temperatures that broke all records. Instead of jammy flavors or overt ripeness, this wine has embraced an all-balsam aromatic profile instead. The bouquet opens to dried cassis or red currant with eucalyptus, cola, grilled rosemary and medicinal herb. The tannins are silky and fully integrated within the wine's thick textural richness. There are areas that feel flat and sedate, but this is an impressive effort overall that shows impressive stability considering the challenges of the growing season.
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2017