Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
75cl * 13.5% ABV * Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
The legendary Tenuta San Guido estate on the coast of the rolling hills of Tuscany's Maremma region is primarily known for Sassicaia, the wine that started the super-Tuscan movement. So legendary is it, that the Sassicaia vineyards have even been given their own DOC - Bolgheri Sassicaia, the first, and so far only case in Italy of a DOC contained in a single estate. Sassicaia was the sole label produced by Tenuta San Guido until 2000, when Guidalberto was introduced.
Much more than a "second wine", after more than 20 years of analysis and experimentation Guidalberto, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, is now a wine of focus and expression of its terroir. Grapes for Tenuta San Guido's Guidalberto come from three vineyard sites surrounding Bolgheri. This 2023 vintage is a fine expression of Bolgheri after a warm growing season. It opens an aromatic bouquet of blackcurrant, red berries, lavender, thyme, crushed flowers, and a touch of bergamot and blood orange. Subtle notes of liquorice and Tuscan herbs add further depth and complexity. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet vibrant, with generous ripe fruit balanced by fresh acidity and a sprinkling of coastal salinity that lingers through the finish. Well-integrated tannins give structure and energy, while savoury, earthy notes nod to its Tuscan origins.
Drink 2028-2047. Pair with pasta in a meaty sauce, mushroom risotto, or cured meats.
'2023 was a very good year for the Cabernets, according to Priscilla Incisa della Rocchetta, who added that a very hot start to August made it more difficult for early-ripening Merlot. As a result, Merlot has been reduced in the blend from 60% to 45%. The rich and glossy red berry, blackberry and black cherry fruit is nicely layered with balsamic herbs, damp earth and lovely mid-palate sapidity, with a creamy undertow which leads to a finish of dark chocolate and bitter herbs. Intense but not overtly concentrated, fresh and poised, there's much to love here – although it will require at least another six months to pull together harmoniously.' 94 pts - James Button, Decanter
'The 2023 Guidalberto is another terrific wine from Tenuta San Guido in this vintage. Aromatic, medium in body and gracious, the 2023 is pure charm. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, spice and blood orange all pulse through a vibrant, refreshing Guidalberto that will drink well on release. The more refined side of Bolgheri is very much on display. This is a fine effort in a year marked by heavy rains and elevated disease pressure. What a delight.' 92 pts - Antonio Galloni, Vinous
'First bottle had mild TCA. Second bottle: Mid, shaded garnet. Definitely a baby brother to its stablemate Sassicaia. The relationship is clear! Not flashy and a little restrained with a dry, balsam finish. Very pure and savoury with no specious sweetness. Real energy to this wine! Very impressive. But I'd cellar it for a while.' 17/20 - Jancis Robinson MW