1995 - Sassicaia, Tenuta San Guido (non owc)

"This exceptional 1995 has two decades of aging potential ahead of it. The wine boasts a nearly opaque ruby/purple color, as well as a knock-out nose of lead pencil, pain grille, minerals, licorice, and black currants. As the wine sat in the glass, violet/floral notes began to emerge. In the mouth, it is tightly-knit and tannic, but superbly concentrated as well as remarkably pure. It possesses that sweet, rich mid-palate that often distinguishes great wines from merely good wines. The finish lasts for over 30 seconds. This wine should only be purchased by readers willing to wait the 5-6 years needed for it to shed its raw tannin and grapiness. The 1995 appears to be a Sassicaia to rival the estate's other top vintages. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020."

"Best Sassicaia since the '90. Rich in currant, blackberry, dried herbs and tanned leather on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with very soft yet fine tannins and a long, caressing finish. Hard to resist now. Best after 1999. _JS"