Drink of the Day: Sassicaia 2017 (Italy)

Drink of the Day: Sassicaia 2017 (Italy)

Sassicaia 2017 represents a pinnacle of Italian viticulture, hailing from the prestigious Tenuta San Guido estate in Tuscany. This iconic red wine is celebrated for its elegance, structure, and historical significance as the pioneer of the Super Tuscan movement. Produced in the Bolgheri region, it reflects a unique microclimate and a commitment to quality that has defined the estate for decades.

Company History

Tenuta San Guido is a sprawling 2,500-hectare estate located along the Tuscan coast, brought into the Incisa della Rocchetta family through the 1930 marriage of Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta to Countess Clarice della Gherardesca. Before the estate became a global wine icon, it was primarily known for its thoroughbred horse breeding and nature conservation efforts. Under the guidance of Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, the estate evolved into a world-renowned winery, eventually becoming a member of the Primum Familiae Vini. Today, the company remains a family-run enterprise that balances agricultural tradition with a dedication to environmental stewardship.

Product History

The history of Sassicaia began in 1944 when Mario Incisa della Rocchetta planted the first Cabernet Sauvignon vines on the estate, noting the similarity between the gravelly soil of Bolgheri and the Graves region of Bordeaux. For over two decades, the wine was produced exclusively for family consumption and close friends. It was not until the 1968 vintage, released commercially in 1971 with the help of his son Nicolò Incisa della Rocchetta and nephew Piero Antinori, that the wine gained international acclaim. The wine is typically composed of 85 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 15 percent Cabernet Franc, aged for approximately 24 months in French oak barrels to achieve its signature complexity.

Review

Sassicaia 2017 has received widespread acclaim from professional critics, reflecting its status as a world-class vintage. Based on ratings from Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, and James Suckling, the wine holds an average score of 96 out of 100. These independent sources consistently highlight the wine's refined tannins, deep fruit profile, and remarkable aging potential.

Serving Guide

Glassware: Large Bordeaux-style glass | Serving temperature: 16 to 18 degrees Celsius | ABV: 13.5 percent

Serving Suggestions

• Decant the wine for at least one hour before serving to allow the complex aromas to fully develop.
• Pair this vintage with hearty meat dishes such as roasted lamb, wild game, or aged Tuscan cheeses.
• Serve at a cool room temperature to ensure the balance between fruit intensity and oak influence remains intact.