Clearly stronger and richer in colour than the 2002, with a wonderful nose, you feel the older Cabernet coming through on this now, merging together with warming spice. A slow teasing buildup of tannic power over the palate, where the flavours begin softly, then tighten. Some animal leathery notes, certainly, but fresh clean leather not Brett, this is a powerful wine, full of hedonism and optimism. The fruit is rich wild strawberries and raspberry coulis, exotic, cinnamon spicing, but not overblown because a grip of salinity comes in on the finish. A great wine, still young. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc.
Tasted by Jane Anson
Part of Sassicaia wines tasted: 1968 - 2015

Beautiful aromas of summer fruits and hints of cream. Then turns to dried Provençal herbs, such as rosemary. Well-defined Sass. Full-bodied, with sleek, refined tannins and a silky finish. All in finesse. Classy wine. Almost chewy. Reminds me of the excellent 1997, but this is slightly better. Give it time.

This does little for me on the nose that is rather subdued at first, but begins to slowly build on the nose yet never develops the fruit concentration that I anticipate. More fresh tobacco leaf, a touch of wild mint and cedar. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins although a little angular and lacking cohesion. Blackberry leaf, a dash of black pepper, a very primal flavour profile. Perhaps this will improve with further bottle ageing, but this does not quite do it for me? Disappointing. Tasted March 2007.

Compared to the 2002 vintage that seems serendipitously suspended in time, the 2001 Bolgheri Sassicaia is in a more significant downward decline. The 2002 vintage was widely-panned. Back in the day, the 2001 vintage was given a full five stars for excellence. Despite the accolades, this wine does not have much life to give. The bouquet shows aromas of cured meat, petrol, smoke, dried herb and dusty earth. The primary aromas have left the building. The mouthfeel is dry and quickly flat-lining.

Cab Sauv 85%. Cab Franc 15% 22 mths in French barriques (1/3 new), 6 mths in bottle Mid crimson. Bonfires and sweetness. Not as arresting as the Ornellaia – much lighter and more transparent. Even in magnum. But a refreshing drink that is so confident it almost doesn’t have to try and will surely age well. Competent. (magnum) (JR)