Guidalberto is a second wine from the producers of the legendary Sassicaia. Grapes are harvested and transported to an independent cellar. Fermentation takes place separately for each variety in temperature-controlled steel vats before undergoing maceration. The wine is aged in French and American oak barrels and refined in bottle before release.

Tasting notes

A full-bodied wine of intense red fruit flavor and and elegantly supple texture supported by ripe, silky tannins. The Merlot in the blend is expressed in sweet black fruit with overall aromas of ripe, concentrated berries offset by restrained spicy oak notes.

Rating

Wine Advocate 90 points (Jun 2012) The 2010 Guidalberto comes across as cool and inward in this vintage. Most recent Guidalbertos have been delicious upon release, but this is a wine that will need another year or two before it starts opening up. There is plenty of energy and vitality in the glass, but readers will need to be patient. Dark red cherries, flowers, licorice and a hint of tobacco are layered into the firm, structured finish. In 2010 the blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. If the entry-level wines are any indication, vintage 2010 wasn’t easy at Tenuta San Guido. Among the more affordable wines, readers should focus on vintages 2006-2009, which are more consistent. It will be interesting to see where the 2010 Sassicaia comes out next year. In the meantime, the 2009 Sassicaia is compelling.

Food pairing

Pair with meat sauce pastas and roasted meats.