Sassicaia Bolgheri DOC 2013

Sassicaia 2013. Tenuta San Guido. These few words would be enough to delineate the 'myth'. Iconic red. An Italian excellence that has made history in the Bolgheri region and in Tuscany. 2013, then, is a very interesting vintage that has given us wines of the highest quality. A mild winter and a rainy spring created the ideal conditions for the grapes to grow. The warm and sunny summer favoured the complete and uniform ripening of the fruit, giving wines of great structure and complexity. In this case, the grapes come from the wonderful 'garden' vineyards of Tenuta San Guido, in Bolgheri. A terroir characterised by calcareous and sandy soils, rich in skeleton, and a temperate Mediterranean climate with sea breezes that mitigate temperatures. An ideal microclimate for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes. The former, Sassicaia's main varietal, gives the wine structure and complexity, while the Cabernet Franc adds elegance and spicy notes. Harvested by hand at the optimal time of ripening, vinification takes place in stainless steel at a controlled temperature. Alcoholic fermentation lasts about 9-12 days, with frequent pumping over and 'délestage'. This is followed by malolactic fermentation and refinement for 20-25 months in French oak barriques. A long and careful process that enhances the wine's characteristics. In the glass, Sassicaia 2013 has an intense and deep purple-red colour. On the nose, one perceives aromas of ripe red fruits, such as blackberry and plum, with spicy, vanilla and underwood notes. In the mouth, however, it is soft and enveloping, with velvety tannins and a lingering finish. A wine destined for long ageing, Sassicaia 2013 accompanies red meat dishes, game, mature cheeses and first courses with meat sauces. A wine for meditation, to be enjoyed calmly and in combination with food of the highest quality.