Description
We have limited quantities of this famous ‘SuperTuscan’ red in rare half bottles, from Bolgheri in Tuscany. Sassicaia was first made in 1968, changing the Italian wine scene forever (the 2019 is therefore the 51st vintage of this iconic wine). And even today, along with Ornellaia and Tignanello, it sits right at the top of the Tuscan quality tree. It’s a great wine if you are building a collection, as, other than being delicious and very much in demand, it will easily last till 2035 in half bottle, and even beyond.
The 2019 is well-structured, expressive and relatively rich compared to the fresh, precise style of the 2018. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc it has beautiful aromas of black and blueberries, cherry, mixed herbs and spices from time ageing in oak barrels. In comparison to the 2018 it is fuller, but whatever the vintage, there is always a finesse to Sassicaia. It’s almost Bordeaux-esque in stature which is perhaps not a surprise given the barrels are high-class French oak, as well as the use of the two Bordeaux grape varieties and the longevity of this wine. But you’ll notice the Tuscan provenance too; in the 2019 this is manifest with the ripe berry fruit, tea leaf and olive complexity. In half bottle, this is drinking very well, but still needs decanting for an hour or so before broaching. Or keep till 2035 if you can wait!