This week the latest vintage of one of Italy’s most iconic wines was released, and while it is not a blockbuster vintage, the 2014 Sassicaia is not to be overlooked. Although Tuscany does have to deal with some vintage variation it is not as extreme as the likes of Bordeaux, and the Tenuta San Guido stable produce thoroughbreds year on year. The story of Sassicaia is the story of the immutable passion and dedication of proprietor Mario Incisa della Rocchetta. It was his vision that spearheaded the abandonment of the draconian Chianti DOC rules and the use of international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Mario started his experiments as far back as the 40's and, with a half century of perfecting their craft, Sassicaia remains the original and best 'super-Tuscan'.
The name Sassicaia derives from the Italian word 'sasso' for stone. This is a nod to the discovery by Mario that the terrain of Bolgheri was not too dissimilar to that of the 'graves' or gravel of the great Bordeaux estates. The Cabernet was a success in the Tuscan soil and climate, achieving a pure expression of the grape that rewarded patient cellaring. Despite an initial reluctance to release the wines to the general public, in 1968 the first official vintage of Sassicaia hit the market and the world took note.
At the official launch this week the new release 2014 vintage was tasted alongside the 2002 for comparison - that vintage apparently having similar qualities to 2014. The 2002 was tasting magnificently - polished, elegant and beautifully complex. It bodes very well for the future of the latest release.
Sassicaia is a wine which transcends vintage variation. You will never have a bad one. It is always a good bet to pick it up on release as once it hits the shelves and begins to be consumed the price tends to increase.
We have limited availability of Sassicaia but if you would like to make a purchase please email us.
