Sassicaia DNA and standards for $75?  What?!

In 1968, Tenuta San Guido made the first Super Tuscan known famously as Sassicaia.  Among the top five Tuscan titans, Sassicaia is a Bordeaux blend from the prized Bolgheri sub-region.  At $290 per bottle, however, it may not be an everyday red.  Savy connoisseurs like to enjoy the estate's Guidalberto Super Tuscan - which is turning heads - while the flagship wine, Sassicaia, ages in their cellar. 

At $70, Guidalberto is nothing short of spectacular. It is owned by Tenuta San Guido (of Sassicaia) and has a similar pedigree from vineyard to bottle.  The grapes are intentionally picked a bit early to preserve freshness, allowing for youthful approachability.  An amazing 2024 vintage has closed the gap considerably between the winery's "Guilalberto" and "Sassicaia" wines.  

San Guido's blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is succulent and alluring right out of the gate. The supple contours of Merlot lend fleshiness to this mid-weight, racy Maremma blend. Ripe red cherry fruit, spice, leather and tobacco are nicely pushed forward.

Like many of the finest chateaux in Bordeaux, Tenuta San Guido crafts Guidalberto as a "second wine" using all-estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  The wine is shaped by the same soil and climate as its big brother, Sassicaia. 

Often called "Baby Sassicaia," this "Super Second" may be enjoyed with grilled meat, wild boar bolognese, pizza, or on its own with a wedge of cheese. 

Delicious!