2004 Sassicaia, Tenuta San Guido, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Magnum (1.5L)

VM96 "Deep ruby. Absolutely ethereal nose offers intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, smoke, leather and black truffle, with a pretty mineral element nuance and clarity. Velvety-smooth, ripe and rich on entry, then awash with mid-palate flavors of red cherry, smoky red plum, cassis, spices, bay leaf, roasted coffee bean and dark chocolate. Bright acids and silky-smooth tannins give this extraordinary wine extra lift and precision. Compared to recent vintages, this is a far richer and plumper yet extremely refined version of Sassicaia at a similar stage of its development. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting mineral quality. The best young Sassicaia in years." IA for VM Aug 2007