2012 Sassicaia
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Tasting notes
The Tenuta San Guido 2012 Bolgheri Sassicaia stands as the outlier in this mini vertical, a wine that does not conform to the same constraints of precision and depth seen in the other vintages presented here. Shaped by a hot and dry growing season marked by scorching winds from Africa, the early-ripening 2012 benefited from sufficient winter rainfall that helped build underground moisture reserves, creating some parallels with the 2023 vintage now coming to market. The wine shows an open-knit and relaxed profile, evolved with hints of amber at the rim, yet it remains sturdy with a noticeable firmness to the tannins. This is likely the best outcome the winemaking team could hope for given the conditions, and the persistence of freshness is what continues to hold the wine together today.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
From an early-ripening vintage, the 2012 Bolgheri Sassicaia shows bold lines and thick color concentration. It does exhibit a classic Sassicaia bouquet, but it does so minus that delicate floral embroidery that comes forth with such delight in 2013. This wine shows a harder, more determined edge. It is less remarkable overall, considering the amazing heights achieved in other vintages. It also reveals thin to medium texture. This Sassicaia roars in terms of bouquet, but offers more of a whimper in terms of mouthfeel. All the elements are there, but they are delivered in a more undertone and one-dimensional manner. It will probably flesh out further with more bottle age, but that leanness is just part of the 2012 vintage.
Structure and shoulders are a little more obvious here, the colour deepens and widens, and the power is evident right from the first nose. A powerful tannic structure holds the fruit, you can feel the grip and it is clear that even at this age it’s barely out of the starting block. It takes a few minutes to soften and open, then the liquorice, chocolate and balsamic notes come through, balancing out and deepening the tight spiced fruits.
"Lots of lavender, minerals and blackcurrants on the nose. Turns to black berries. Full body, ultra-refined tannins and an exquisite finish. This is all about delicacy, finesse and grace. Yet there is a solid core of ripe tannins giving it backbone and outstanding form. Better in 2017 but so delicious already. A wonderful surprise."
About the producer
Tentuta San Guido produces Sassicaia – Italy’s most famous wine. An icon from the Bolgheri coastline of Tuscany, made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, its rise to prominence in the late 1970s sparked the Super Tuscan revolution.