Tenuta San Guido

The modern chapter began in the 1940s, when Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta established Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc on stony, well-drained sites. The first commercial Sassicaia was 1968, released in 1971 and initially sold as table wine; its success contributed to later regulatory changes. Today the estate produces three labels: Sassicaia, Guidalberto, and Le Difese.

Tenuta San Guido is widely recognized for Sassicaia and its influence on modern Italian wine.

• Innovative origins: Early Cabernet plantings in Bolgheri helped redefine regional styles and inspired the Super Tuscan category.
• Critical recognition: Select vintages have earned top scores from major critics; the 1985 Sassicaia is often cited as a landmark wine.
• Market presence: Strong demand among collectors and on fine-wine exchanges and at auction.
• Vintage consistency: A long track record of ageworthy releases across decades.

• What makes Sassicaia different from other Italian wines?

  Sassicaia is notable for Bordeaux varieties grown on the Tuscan coast, an approach that helped catalyze the Super Tuscan movement.

• What is the main grape variety in Sassicaia?

  Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, typically blended with a small amount of Cabernet Franc.

• How did Sassicaia influence Italian wine regulations?

  Its success with non-traditional varieties encouraged regulatory flexibility and paved the way for broader acceptance of Super Tuscans.

• What is Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC?

  An appellation established in 2013 as a single-estate DOC reserved exclusively for Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido.

• When was Tenuta San Guido founded and when was Sassicaia first released?

  The estate’s modern story dates to the 1940s under Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta. Sassicaia’s first commercial vintage was 1968, released in 1971.

• Where is Tenuta San Guido located?

  In Bolgheri, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy, near the Tyrrhenian coast.

• What other wines does the estate produce?

  Guidalberto and Le Difese, each offering a different expression of the house’s Bordeaux-influenced style.

• How are the wines aged?

  Sassicaia typically matures about 24 months in French oak barriques before bottling. Guidalberto is usually aged around 15 months in barriques, predominantly French oak. Le Difese generally sees about 8 to 10 months in barriques. Exact regimes may vary by vintage.

• Is Sassicaia popular with wine drinkers?

  Yes, it is among Italy’s most collected and traded fine wines.

• Can you visit Tenuta San Guido?

  Visits are limited and usually by appointment; contact the estate in advance.