2022 Sassicaia

Tenuta San Guido fared quite well in 2022 considering several episodes that created significant challenges. Severe cold weather approaching frost levels in April was a shock to vineyards in the plains and impacted potential yields. Rain and cold winds during flowering and set resulted in loose clusters, further lowering yields. Torrid heat arrived in July and August but appeared to have minimal impact, largely because vines were carrying reduced crops. Rain in mid-August followed by lower temperatures helped restore some balance. Harvest took place over a condensed period of 26 days, 8-9 fewer than normal. In the cellar, Estate Director Carlo Paoli and his team gave the 2022 lots anywhere from 14 days on the skins for the more delicate fruit to 18-22 days for the best parcels. Paoli opted for minimal délestages but with more pumpovers. The wine spent six months in neutral oak, after which 40% new barrels were introduced. Total time in oak was 23 months.