Sassicaia 2012
Tax included.
Winery: Tenuta San Guido
Vintage: 2012
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc
Drinking window: 2016 - 2035
Region: Bolgheri, Tuscany
Production: 150.000 bottles
THE ITALIAN GRAPE (96)
A magnificent vintage, Sassicaia 2012 reflects a distinctly Mediterranean yet beautifully balanced season, embodying the quintessential ‘Bolgheri’ style. The wine boasts an intense ruby-garnet color and an elegant, clean bouquet that highlights wild berry notes, enhanced by subtle balsamic undertones in the background. As the highest-rated wine among the Super Tuscans of this vintage, Sassicaia 2012 stands as a true benchmark of excellence. Its balance and refinement make it a stellar representation of both its terroir and vintage.
WINE ENTHUSIAST (99)
One of Italy's most iconic bottlings, the 2012 Sassicaia is drop-dead gorgeous. A blend ofCabernet Sauvignon andCabernet Franc, it boasts sensations of blue flowers, cedar, juicy red currants, ripe raspberries, white pepper and a balsamic note. Structured, radiant and loaded with finesse, it delivers everything you'd expect from a world-class wine and more. Drink 2018–2032.
FALSTAFF (96)
Deep dark, rich ruby with slight purple shimmer. Very intense and dense nose, opens with fine herbal notes, then lush blackcurrant to bite into, fine macchia notes in the background. Balanced and round, shows a lot of vivid fruit, unfolds with fine-meshed, supple tannin that builds in many layers, long finish.
About the wine
Sassicaia's journey began in 1945 when its first batch was bottled, but it didn't taste quite like it does today. Mario Incisa, the man behind Sassicaia, spent several years experimenting with different techniques to improve the wine's flavor. Eventually, he realized he needed the help of an expert oenologist. Turning to his relatives, the Antinori family, Mario sought out Giacomo Tachis, an experienced oenologist. Together, Mario and Giacomo decided to try something new: using Bordeaux grapes and applying modern winemaking methods to Sassicaia's production.
Their collaboration bore fruit in 1968 when they released Sassicaia's first commercial batch. It wasn't long before their efforts garnered international recognition. In 1972, at a blind tasting competition hosted by Decanter Magazine, Sassicaia outshone 33 wines from 11 different countries to claim its first major award. This success marked a turning point for Sassicaia, propelling it onto the global stage as a wine of exceptional quality. The name "Sassicaia" itself holds significance, derived from the stony soil ("sassi" in Italian) where the grapes are grown.
The 2012 vintage in Bolgheri was marked by challenging conditions, with a dry winter followed by a hot summer and limited rainfall. However, careful vineyard management ensured that the vines adapted well, producing healthy, concentrated grapes. The warm days and cool nights in September and October provided the ideal environment for balanced ripening, leading to a harvest of exceptional quality. Sassicaia 2012 exemplifies the vintage with its elegance and depth. The wine boasts a brilliant ruby hue, offering aromas of ripe red berries, cedar, and subtle herbal notes. On the palate, it is refined and structured, with silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that balances its richness. The finish is long and complex, showcasing the harmony and aging potential that define Sassicaia’s legacy.
