Sassicaia - Grappa da vinacce di Sassicaia 42% alc by vol. 500ml NV

Report: Tenuta San Guido "Sassicaia" Grappa da Vinacce (42% vol., 500ml, NV)

A grape marc spirit from the remains of the cult wine

1st product core & speciality:
Grappa made from the exclusive lees (vinacce) of the iconic Bolgheri top wine Sassicaia (Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot). Produced for Tenuta San Guido - the birthplace of the "Super Tuscan". A limited-edition brandywith 42% vol. that captures the essence of the legendary terroir in distilled form. NV (Non-Vintage) indicates blends of several vintages.

2nd origin & prestige:

• Winery: Tenuta San Guido (Bolgheri, Tuscany) - creator of Sassicaia, one of Italy's most influential wines.

• Distillery: In collaboration with a renowned speciality grappa distillery (typically Marolo or similar).

• Philosophy: Refinement of the valuable grape marc after the grape harvest. A "luxury distillate" for collectors and connoisseurs.

3. raw material & production (key to exclusivity):

• Vinacce: Only fresh, quality-selected grape marc from the Sassicaia vineyards. Speciality: Grape seeds and skins from Bordeaux vines (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot) in the Mediterranean terroir.

• Processing: Immediate processing after pressing (no oxidation).

• Distillation : Discontinuous distillation process in copper kettles (bain-marie or direct fire), often with steam. Gentle separation of the "cuore" (centrepiece).

• Maturation: Short rest in stainless steel or neutral barrels to preserve the primary flavours (therefore watery).

• Alcohol content: 42% vol. - atypically low for grappa, emphasises finesse and aroma balance.

4. sensory profile (terroir reflection):

• Appearance: crystal clear, colourless - sign of purist workmanship.

• Nose (odour):

  • Intellectual fruit: Stewed blackcurrant, plum jam, ripe cherry (no striking sweetness).

  • Terroir notes: Cedar wood, damp earth, tobacco leaf, delicate truffle nuance.

  • Bordeaux heritage: cassis, mint, noble herbal spice (laurel, pepper).

  • Alcohol extremely softly integrated - remarkable for 42%.

• Palate (flavour & structure):

  • Start: surprisingly smooth, almost silky. Immediate complexity: concentrated fruit (blackberry, sour cherry).

  • Centre: Depth & structuredominate: Tannins from seeds (fine-grained), smoke, leather, noble bitterness (cocoa, coffee). The Bordeaux DNA is evident in the spice and mineral austerity.

  • Finish: Extremely long and dry,the fruit gives way to spicy sophistication (sandalwood, white pepper). The typical Sassicaia "steel structure" remains in the finish. Warm, but never spicy - the 42% vol. seems perfectly dosed.

5th quality rating:
A grappa of the absolute top class - beyond the usual.

• Terroir transparency: Uniquely reflects the character of the Sassicaia wine in distilled form.

• Complexity & depth: Combines concentrated fruit, mineral rigour and complex mature aromas to create an intellectual experience.

• Texture & balance: Masterful alcohol integration, velvety tannin structure without astringency.

• Length & finish: Impressively long finish with constant development - a sign of the highest art of distillation.

• Rarity: Limited availability, linked to the Sassicaia harvest.

6. use & ritual:

• Pure (mandatory!): As a meditative digestif after large meals, served at 16-18°C in a tulip or grappa glass. Allow time to develop!

• Cigar companion: Ideal partner for medium-heavy cigars (tertiary flavour harmony).

• Culinary: Refines dark chocolate desserts or game sauce (sparingly!).

• Not suitable for cocktails - too complex and valuable.

7 Price & target group:

• Luxury segment: well above standard grappa (approx. €100-€180+ for 0.5l).

• Target group:

  • Sassicaia collectors & lovers (as a complete experience).

  • Grappa connoisseurs looking for exceptional references.

  • Investors of limited spirits.

• A prestige gift for absolute connoisseurs.

Conclusion:
The Sassicaia Grappa da Vinacce (42% vol.) is far more than just a grape spirit - it is the distilled essence of a myth. It transcends the grappa category with its unmistakable connection to the terroir of Bolgheri, the complexity of the Bordeaux vines and the masterful art of distillation. Instead of flat fruit, it impresses with depth, structure and mineral elegance, reflecting the character of the Sassicaia wine in a spirit-like manner. An intellectual pleasure for special moments that respectfully celebrates its origins and craftsmanship in every nuance. An absolute collector's item and a reference for terroir distillates.

Note:As a product of a top winery, this grappa is subject to strict quality controls. Its sensory precision makes it an object of study for the interaction between viticulture and distillation.