The 2012 San Guido Sassicaia is a proprietary blend predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) and Cabernet Franc (15%), hailing from the renowned Bolgheri region in Tuscany, Italy. This red wine showcases a 13.5% alcohol content and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
The summer of 2012 in Bolgheri was characterized by long, hot days and cooler evenings, a combination that lent the Sassicaia its unique vibrancy and freshness. According to Wine & Spirits, this vintage "melds flavors of black currant and red raspberry with fresh thyme, toasted nuts and the black spice it picked up from two years in French oak barrels." The publication awarded it a score of 94 and noted that its velvety texture is "balanced by a streak of graphite and finely etched tannins robust enough to take on a seared steak."
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate provided a score of 92, acknowledging the wine's bold lines and thick color concentration. However, reviewer Monica Larner pointed out that the 2012 vintage lacks the "delicate floral embroidery" of the 2013 vintage, describing it as having a "harder, more determined edge" and a thinner to medium texture. Larner suggested that it might improve with more bottle age, but for now, it presents a somewhat one-dimensional profile.
Wine Spectator gave this vintage a score of 93, describing it as "rich and intense," with flavors of vanilla, toast, and black cherry wrapped in "stern tannins." The review noted that the wine shows a hint of elegance and finesse on its lengthy finish and recommended it be enjoyed from 2019 through 2032.
Wine Enthusiast gave an outstanding score of 99, calling the 2012 Sassicaia "drop-dead gorgeous" and praising its "sensations of blue flowers, cedar, juicy red currants, ripe raspberries, white pepper and a balsamic note." The review highlighted its structure, radiance, and finesse, asserting that it delivers everything expected from a world-class wine.
James Suckling echoed these sentiments with a score of 95, noting "lots of lavender, minerals and black currants on the nose" that evolve into blackberries. He described the wine as having "ultra-refined tannins and an exquisite finish," emphasizing its delicacy, finesse, and grace.
Finally, Decanter offered a score of 92, remarking on the wine's powerful tannic structure and deep, tight spiced fruits. The review noted that it takes time to open up, eventually revealing "liquorice, chocolate and balsamic notes" that balance and deepen the fruit flavors.
In summary, the 2012 San Guido Sassicaia is a well-regarded wine with varied reviews, ranging from excellent to more tempered praise, highlighting its potential for further development with age.