Sassicaia - Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri 1997

Tasting note: Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia 1997

(Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy; Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc; 13.5-14% alcohol)

General:
The Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia 1997 is a legend of Italian viticulture and a milestone of the "Super Tuscan" movement. The 1997 vintage in Tuscany was characterised by extreme heat and drought, which led to early-ripening, concentrated grapes. Marchese Nicolò Incisa della Rocchetta created a wine with a rare balance between Mediterranean opulence and classic elegance. After more than 25 years, the Sassicaia shows its perfect maturity - proof of the longevity of great Bolgheri wines.

Appearance:
Deep garnet red with broad, mahogany-coloured reflections on the rim. Slight translucency in the centre, accompanied by fine sediment and delicate, oily tears in the glass. The colour reveals maturity, without signs of fatigue.

Nose:
A complex, tertiary-influenced bouquet: cedar wood, tobacco leaf, leather and truffle dominate. Ripe fruit notes of plum jam, dried figs and black cherry resonate underneath. Refined nuances of vanilla, cocoa and an earthy spiciness (pepper, sage) are complemented by a cool minerality (graphite, slate).

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied with silky, fully integrated tannins. The acidity is lively and carries flavours of dark chocolate, laurel and preserved blackberries. Tertiary notes of autumn leaves, truffle and balsamic vinegar underline the maturity. The texture is velvety, with a savoury undercurrent and lingering spice.

Finish:
Long, sensual finish with notes of liquorice, roasted coffee beans and a smoky minerality. The finish remains elegant, carried by a harmonious bitterness and delicate sweetness.

Maturation potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is at the peak of its development - ready to drink, but stable for years to come if stored optimally (12-14 °C, dark). Decant it 1-2 hours before serving to separate sediments and allow the flavours to develop.

Suitable dishes:
Ideal accompaniments are wild boar ragout, lamb with rosemary, truffle pasta or mature pecorino. Also a sensual contrast to dark chocolate (70% cocoa).

Rating:
An icon of the Bolgheri terroir that combines the power of the vintage with aristocratic elegance. Timeless and profound. ★★★★★ (96/100).

Tip:
The 1997 vintage is one of the best of the 1990s for Sassicaia. Compared to the structured 1995 or the fresh 1999, this vintage is characterised by sun-drenched opulence while retaining freshness. A wine that embodies the birth of modern Tuscan wine culture.