2008 Sassicaia
By Tenuta San Guido
2008 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido, XXX SubRegion
The 2008 vintage of the sought-after Sassicaia from the revered Tenuta San Guido estate illustrates an iconic year for the illustrious winery. A challenging and cooler than average growing period, dismissed initially by some as potentially underwhelming, instead gifted us a wine that is a testament to the sheer resilience and determination of this estate's winemaking prowess.
A Tricky Vintage Turned Triumph
In contrast to some of its warmer-vintage siblings, the 2008 display a vibrantly refreshing acidity with an underpinning earthy complexity - the result of the extensive minerality offered by the unique terroir in this region. French oak barrique provides structure without overwhelming, taming the wildness of the Cabernet grapes into a refined elegance. This marriage of grape and environment creates a flavour symphony in each glass.
Each sip promises notes of cassis and hibiscus aromas preceding deeper layers of earthy bramble and spice, with whispers of graphite and tar that command attention. An assertive tannic structure frames these complex flavours harmoniously, contributing to an extended finish that lingers on the palate.
The Ultimate Wine Investment Opportunity
For fine wine investors seeking wines from Italy that will steadily appreciate over time, 2008 Sassicaia from Tenuta San Guido represents a success story born out of unpredictability. Given the initial scepticism surrounding the vintage, this bottle has matured into an investment gem thanks to its stunning ageing potential and enduring appeal among wine connoisseurs.
In summary, the unexpected triumph of the 2008 Sassicaia illustrates that even during testing times, exceptional producers like Tenuta San Guido can craft works of vinous art. Providing an investment opportunity that promises to delight both the palate and portfolio, this wine highlights the enticing unpredictability that keeps wine investing perpetually captivating.
Market price (CAD)
$5,170.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
182.94
Scores and tasting notes
The 2008 Bolgheri Sassicaia is a wine without a winemaker. The last vintage made by Giacomo Tachis was 2007 and incoming enologist Graziana Grassini claims 2009 as her first vintage. Within the context of this retrospective, the 2008 vintage opens a new chapter, because it is the first wine to show evident tertiary definition and complexity. In fact, the wine performs beautifully with an exalted performance and ethereal aromas. They include cassis, wild berry, crushed mineral, licorice, petrol and grilled herb. This wine is really coming together now and is entering a very exciting moment in its drinking life. It boasts finesse, elegance and grace. Yet, it also shows unmistakable richness and structure that gives the wine an enormous presence in terms of mouthfeel. This was one of the top highlights of the retrospective.
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 28 April 2017