2007 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia

Magnum. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc. Slightly opaque, with an attractive brick-garnet hue. Dried tobacco and black-tea development but there’s still a core of dried black cherry that carries a touch of ripeness to it. This is clearly a maturing Cabernet, but it carries the signature of Italy not Bordeaux. Medium- to full-bodied expression, with plenty of svelte, complex flavours. Great length and lovely finesse to the still quite firm tannins. (TJ)

Here's a wine of power, determination and confidence—as far as first impressions go. The 2007 Bolgheri Sassicaia leaves little hidden behind the curtain. It presents a frank and straightforward array of bold fruit, spice, leather and tobacco-like aromas that emerge from the bouquet with energy and force. The aromas are complete and genuine. The palate, however, offers more space for interpretation and review. It is finessed and nuanced, thus requiring more time to fully comprehend and appreciate. Silky tannins are followed by fine textural smoothness and a long finish. The outgoing nature of the aromas make for a fascinating contrast against the inward and reticent nature of the mouthfeel.

Mid ruby with orange tinges. Leafy and underlying brooding fruit, but not yet open. Fine, even transparent and juicy palate with gravelly tannins. Perfect, perfect oak. Not at its peak by a long way. Great balance. (WS)