The Story of A Legendary Wine: SASSICAIA by Tenuta San Guido

In the idyllic countryside of Bolgheri, nestled on the Tuscan coast, a legend was born that would transform the world of fine wine. The story of Sassicaia, a wine revered by connoisseurs and collectors alike, is one of passion, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This is not merely a tale of viticulture; it is a saga that spans decades, entwining the destinies of families, the nuances of terroir and the mastery of winemaking.

The Genesis of Sassicaia

The journey of Sassicaia begins with Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, a man whose vision was as bold as it was revolutionary. Born in Rome in 1889 to a noble Piedmontese family, Mario's passion for agronomy and viniculture was evident from a young age. While studying agriculture in Pisa, he dreamt of creating a wine that rivaled the great Bordeaux. This dream led him to the Maremma region of Tuscany in the early 1940s, where he married Clarice della Gherardesca, a descendant of one of Tuscany's oldest families.

“We believe that Sassicaia is one of the greatest wine creations of the century. It also happens to be simply wonderful to drink. May it thrive through the new millennium”. / Serena Sutcliffe MW & David Peppercorn MW.

Mario recognized the unique potential of the Bolgheri region. The soil, a mix of gravel, clay, and sand, bore a striking resemblance to the Graves region of Bordeaux. This discovery was pivotal. He began experimenting with French grape varieties, convinced that Cabernet Sauvignon could thrive in this terroir. The first vineyard, planted in the hills descending from the fortress of Castiglioncello to the sea, was the cradle of what would become Sassicaia.

The Birth of a Super Tuscan

Initially, Sassicaia was a private affair, enjoyed only by family and friends. From 1945 to 1967, the wine remained a secret gem, its potential known only to a select few. It wasn't until 1968 that Sassicaia was introduced to the world, and it did so with a resounding impact. The 1968 vintage, the first to be commercially released, was an instant success, heralded by critics and wine lovers alike.

The acclaim Sassicaia received was no accident. Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, with the advice of his brother-in-law Niccolò Antinori and the expertise of enologist Giacomo Tachis, perfected the winemaking process. Tachis introduced the use of small French oak barrels, a technique uncommon in Italy at the time, which imparted unique characteristics to the wine. This innovation, coupled with meticulous viticulture, set Sassicaia apart.

The Terroir and the Vines

The magic of Sassicaia lies in its terroir. The Bolgheri region, with its maritime climate and stony soil, creates an environment where Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc can flourish. The vineyards, spread over 75 hectares, are meticulously managed to ensure the highest quality grapes. The composition of the soil, rich in minerals and well-drained, allows the vines to develop deep roots, imparting complexity and depth to the wine.

The microclimate of Bolgheri, influenced by the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea, moderates the intense heat of the Tuscan sun, providing ideal conditions for grape ripening. The result is a wine with balanced acidity, robust tannins, and a bouquet that is both elegant and powerful.

Crafting Sassicaia: A Symphony of Tradition and Innovation

The production of Sassicaia is a testament to the harmony between tradition and innovation. The grapes, primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc, are harvested by hand, ensuring only the finest fruit is selected. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the integrity of the fruit flavors.

The aging process is where Sassicaia truly distinguishes itself. The wine is aged for a minimum of 18 months in French oak barriques, which impart subtle nuances of vanilla, spice and toasted oak. This aging process enhances the complexity of the wine, allowing it to develop its signature profile of dark fruit, tobacco, and earthy undertones.

The Legacy and the Vintages

Over the years, Sassicaia has produced numerous outstanding vintages, each a reflection of the unique conditions of its year. The 1985 vintage is perhaps the most celebrated, receiving a perfect score from critics and cementing Sassicaia's reputation on the global stage. Other notable vintages include 1982, 1988, 1990, 1995, 2001, 2004, 2010, 2015, and 2016. Each vintage tells its own story, offering a glimpse into the intricate dance between nature and winemaking.

A Collector's Treasure

Sassicaia's allure extends beyond its exceptional taste. It has become a prized asset in the world of wine investment. Auction houses around the world have seen record-breaking sales, with collectors vying for rare bottles. The 1985 vintage, for instance, has fetched thousands of dollars per bottle, a testament to its value and prestige. For the discerning investor, Sassicaia offers both a delightful drinking experience and a sound investment opportunity.

The Essence of a Super Tuscan

What makes Sassicaia a true Super Tuscan? It is the blend of tradition and innovation, the meticulous attention to detail, and the passion of those who craft it. Sassicaia broke away from the traditional Tuscan grape varieties like Sangiovese, instead embracing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. This bold move, coupled with the use of French oak, set the stage for the Super Tuscan movement, inspiring other winemakers to explore new possibilities.

An Invitation to Experience Sassicaia

Sassicaia is more than a wine; it is an experience. While Tenuta San Guido is not open to the public, the enchanting village of Bolgheri offers a chance to savor this legendary wine. The Osteria Enoteca San Guido, located near the estate, provides an exquisite setting to enjoy Sassicaia alongside the flavors of Tuscan cuisine. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a visit to Bolgheri is a pilgrimage to the heart of luxury and tradition.

The Auction House Phenomenon

Sassicaia's journey from the vineyards to the auction houses of the world is a testament to its status as an iconic wine. Collectors and investors eagerly seek out rare vintages, driving up prices to record levels. The 1985 vintage, with its perfect 100-point score, has been particularly sought after, often fetching prices upwards of $10,000 per bottle. This phenomenon is not just about the wine's intrinsic quality but also its storied history and the prestige associated with owning a piece of this legend.

The People Behind Sassicaia

The story of Sassicaia is also the story of the people who brought it to life. Mario Incisa della Rocchetta's vision was realized through the dedication and expertise of individuals like Giacomo Tachis, whose innovative techniques transformed the wine. Today, the della Rocchetta family continues this legacy, ensuring that each bottle of Sassicaia is a reflection of their enduring commitment to excellence.

The Process: From Grape to Glass

Understanding the process of making Sassicaia provides insight into what makes this wine so exceptional. The journey begins in the vineyard, where the grapes are meticulously tended throughout the growing season. Harvesting is done by hand, selecting only the best grapes to ensure quality. Once harvested, the grapes undergo a rigorous sorting process before being gently pressed.

Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, allowing for the preservation of the wine's delicate aromas and flavors. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barriques, a practice that imparts subtle complexity and structure. During this period, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, which softens the acidity and enhances the mouthfeel.

The final step in the process is blending. The precise proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are determined based on the characteristics of each vintage. This careful blending process ensures that every bottle of Sassicaia maintains its signature profile while reflecting the unique qualities of the year.

The Terroir: A Unique Microclimate

The terroir of Bolgheri plays a crucial role in shaping the character of Sassicaia. The region's unique microclimate, influenced by the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea, creates an environment that is ideal for growing Bordeaux grape varieties. The cooling maritime breezes moderate the heat of the Tuscan sun, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.

The soil composition is another key factor. The gravelly, well-drained soils of Bolgheri are rich in minerals, providing the vines with the nutrients they need to produce high-quality fruit. This combination of soil and climate gives Sassicaia its distinctive minerality and depth.

The Impact of Sassicaia on Italian Winemaking

The success of Sassicaia had a profound impact on the Italian wine industry. It challenged the traditional conventions of winemaking in Tuscany, proving that international grape varieties could thrive in the region. This success inspired a new generation of winemakers to experiment with Bordeaux blends, leading to the creation of other renowned Super Tuscan wines.

Sassicaia's influence extended beyond Tuscany. It demonstrated the potential for innovation and quality in Italian winemaking, raising the profile of Italian wines on the global stage. Today, Sassicaia is celebrated not only for its own achievements but also for its role in transforming the landscape of Italian viticulture.

The Heritage of Tenuta San Guido

Tenuta San Guido, the estate where Sassicaia is produced, is steeped in history and tradition. The estate covers 2,500 hectares, with vineyards occupying a select portion of this land. The dedication to preserving the natural environment is evident in the estate's approach to sustainable farming and biodiversity conservation.

The estate is also home to the Razza Dormello Olgiata, a renowned thoroughbred horse breeding operation, and the Rifugio Faunistico Padule di Bolgheri, a wildlife refuge. This commitment to balance between agriculture and nature reflects the holistic philosophy that underpins the production of Sassicaia.

The Future of Sassicaia

As Sassicaia moves into the future, the commitment to quality and innovation remains unwavering. The della Rocchetta family continues to invest in the vineyards and winemaking facilities, ensuring that each vintage of Sassicaia lives up to its legendary reputation. Research and development efforts focus on enhancing sustainability and exploring new techniques to further refine the wine.

The legacy of Sassicaia is not just about the past; it is about an ongoing journey of excellence. Each bottle is a testament to the passion and dedication of those who craft it, offering a timeless experience that continues to captivate wine lovers around the world.

Conclusion

The story of Sassicaia is one of passion, perseverance, and perfection. From its humble beginnings as a private indulgence to its status as a global icon, Sassicaia embodies the essence of the good life. It is a testament to the vision of Mario Incisa della Rocchetta and the dedication of those who continue his legacy. For those who seek the extraordinary, Sassicaia offers a journey through time, terroir, and tradition—a journey that delights the senses and captivates the soul. With each sip, Sassicaia invites you to experience a piece of history, a touch of luxury, and the pinnacle of winemaking artistry. Whether enjoyed in the company of friends, savored at a special occasion, or held as a treasured investment, Sassicaia stands as a symbol of the highest aspirations in the world of wine.

For those looking to elevate their experience even further, I'm delighted to inform you that Sassicaia wines can be a highly desirable addition to your wine list when chartering a yacht with me. Through my partnership with the most reliable wine distributors around the world, I ensure that you can enjoy this legendary wine as you sail through breathtaking vistas, adding an unparalleled touch of luxury to your journey.

For more information about Tenuta San Guido or enquiries combining the best of two worlds with both a visit to the region of Bolgheri and a charter on the yacht of your dreams, contact me at jgranelli@iyc.com or DM.

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