The 1968 vintage marked the debut of Sassicaia, a bold and groundbreaking wine that defied traditional Tuscan winemaking. Named after the stony soil from which it originates, Sassicaia was crafted to transcend boundaries and stand the test of time. The 2022 vintage is a triumph, showcasing the elegance and precision synonymous with modern Sassicaia. James Button (Decanter) awards it 97 points, describing it as a “dark horse” that will require patience but promises exceptional longevity.
Sassicaia 2022: Producer
Tenuta San Guido represents a legacy of tradition, excellence, and ethical stewardship passed down through generations. The estate’s dedication has led to remarkable accomplishments in multiple fields: Sassicaia, a pioneering force in the world of fine wine; Razza Dormello Olgiata, a renowned name in thoroughbred horse breeding; and the Rifugio Faunistico Padule di Bolgheri, a protected wildlife refuge dedicated to nature conservation. This unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability continues to define Tenuta San Guido as a benchmark of innovation and heritage.
Sassicaia 2022: Vintage
The 2022 vintage was marked by warm conditions, but the favourable microclimate of Bolgheri maintained a harmonious balance of acidity and freshness. Autumn began with cooler-than-average temperatures, abundant rainfall, and a late-November cold spell that encouraged plant dormancy and the natural reduction of pests. Winter rains replenished water reserves, setting the stage for a promising growing season. Spring brought above-average temperatures, briefly interrupted by a sudden cold snap that reduced bud development in early vineyards. Summer was marked by intense heat, yet the unique microclimate of Bolgheri and the elevated positioning of the vineyards ensured that the vines experienced no signs of stress. A crucial mid-August rainfall brought a welcome drop in temperature, facilitating the ideal ripening process. The harvest, meticulously carried out by hand, commenced in early September with grapes from the younger vineyards.
Sassicaia 2022: Winemaking
On a vast 2,500-hectare estate, only the finest parcels have been carefully selected for vineyards, occupying just a small portion of the land. With its exceptional soil, microclimate, and exposure, this unique terroir rightfully holds its own appellation: DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia.
This is the 53rd release from this iconic estate; the 2022 Sassicaia is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc.
Following a meticulous grape selection, the harvested fruit underwent soft pressing before controlled alcoholic fermentation, which concluded by the end of October. Maceration times ranged between 13 and 18 days, allowing for an optimal extraction of polyphenols and aromas. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation followed, finishing by the end of November, further enhancing the wine’s complexity and texture. The wine was then matured for approximately 23 months in French oak barriques, refining its structure and depth. Finally, it was transferred to stainless steel tanks for the final batch selection before blending, ensuring balance and consistency in the finished wine.
Sassicaia 2022: In The Glass
This wine is tightly coiled and concentrated, with a striking tension between its weighty raspberry, blackberry, and strawberry coulis fruit and its structured verticality. Mid-palate sapidity, fresh acidity, and fine yet dense tannins create a dark horse of a Sassicaia, promising exceptional longevity. While 2022 was a hot vintage, careful handling – including shorter macerations and reduced barrel ageing – has preserved remarkable freshness.
Sassicaia 2022: Awards
Decanter – 97/100
Inside Bordeaux – 96/100
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