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Sassicaia

1988 Bolgheri Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

The Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia, a remarkable red wine hailing from the Bolgheri region, showcases a sophisticated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. This classic vintage from 1988 is known for its full-bodied structure, delivering a beautiful balance of intensity and complexity. The wine exhibits well-integrated tannins, providing a firm backbone while allowing the rich fruit flavors to shine. With its high acidity, the Sassicaia maintains a vibrant freshness that invigorates the palate and complements its lush fruit character. This wine is wonderfully dry, enhancing its elegant profile and making it a stellar choice for food pairings or enjoyable on its own. Its exceptional craftsmanship is reflected not only in its exquisite flavor profile but also in the numerous accolades it has received over the years, solidifying its status as a true gem of the Bolgheri region.

Tasting notes:


Black Cherry

Black Cherry

Blackcurrant

Blackcurrant

Tobacco

Tobacco

Flavor profile:


Acidity Mild

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Pairs well with:


Roasted Duck, Grilled Lamb, Lamb Chops

Region:


Bolgheri

The birthplace of cult wine Sassicaia and the "Super Tuscan" movement, Bolgheri DOC is a fascinating recent addition to Italian wine history. For fans of silky Bordeaux-style reds, Bolgheri's nonconformist blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Sangiovese are second to none. Lying in a coastal area of central Tuscany called Alta Maremma (which was swampland until it was drained in the 1930s), Bolgheri's sloping, gravelly terroir is quite distinct from the Chianti hills. A local winemaker planted Bordeaux grapes here after WWII, and in 1978 his Sassicaia won first place at a blind tasting of Bordeaux wines. The rest is history. Bolgheri's Vermentino-based whites, while less famous, are also well worth seeking out. The DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) designation for Italian wines was introduced in the 1960s. It is the main classification system used in the country and regulates what winemakers can and cannot do regarding wine style, varietal restrictions, minimum and maximum alcohol levels, aging techniques and growing regions.

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