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Margaux vs Sassicaia double vertical
Tasted March 2, 2020 by sirpat00 with 748 views
Introduction
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
To be fair, maybe Sassicaia was disadvantaged by the speed tasting format (26 wines in 2h) and with no prior decant was given no time to evolve with aeration.
In general Margaux expressed vintage variability but nevertheless managed to shine in some of the mediocre years. A delicate structure with a fresh blue fruit core framed by espresso / black coffee proved signature characteristics. Sassicaia tended to be more concentrated, with a heavier body and riper fruit - but also surprisingly puristic and consistent. I had to wrestle with more recent vintages but bottles with 10+ years of age tended to perform better. This in contrast to Margaux where I found a lot of immediate pleasure in all age brackets.
Flight 1 (4 notes)
Red
2004 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
This kicked of the tasting showing leather barnyard, dark berry (cherry), bramble berry and some fresh herbaceous notes. Fresh acidity, velvety texture, a bit of heat and intense blueberry fruit waited to be discovered on the plate. Maybe lacking some precision and turning somewhat port-like over time, but otherwise a nicely aged wine that didn't have to hide from the Margaux 2004 in the next glass.
This kicked of the tasting showing leather barnyard, dark berry (cherry), bramble berry and some fresh herbaceous notes. Fresh acidity, velvety texture, a bit of heat and intense blueberry fruit waited to be discovered on the plate. Maybe lacking some precision and turning somewhat port-like over time, but otherwise a nicely aged wine that didn't have to hide from the Margaux 2004 in the next glass.
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Comments (2)
Red
2004 Château Margaux
95 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Slightly herbaceous, initially leathery but fading, fruit forward with a clear red berries / cherries fruit profile. Fresh and fruity palate, some leather and age, lacking a bit dimensions on the palate, but drinks extremely well helped by the delicate nose also showing some minty and menthol notes. This set an exclamation mark at the beginning of the vertical with excitement rising in anticipation of what was yet to come.
Slightly herbaceous, initially leathery but fading, fruit forward with a clear red berries / cherries fruit profile. Fresh and fruity palate, some leather and age, lacking a bit dimensions on the palate, but drinks extremely well helped by the delicate nose also showing some minty and menthol notes. This set an exclamation mark at the beginning of the vertical with excitement rising in anticipation of what was yet to come.
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Comment
Red
2003 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
This had a slightly chemical touch to it (not in a bad way) on top of nutty and aging notes, also thought there was just a tad of brett. Underneath red fruit, maybe also a whiff of mint. Palate was quite heavy with coarse-grained tannins and wanting precision. Bottle variation could be at play here, but I’m struggling to see a bright future here - but I did enjoy the nose.
This had a slightly chemical touch to it (not in a bad way) on top of nutty and aging notes, also thought there was just a tad of brett. Underneath red fruit, maybe also a whiff of mint. Palate was quite heavy with coarse-grained tannins and wanting precision. Bottle variation could be at play here, but I’m struggling to see a bright future here - but I did enjoy the nose.
3 people found this helpful
Comments (5)
Red
2003 Château Margaux
93 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Just hints of aging notes here and less obvious than in the 2014. Held back and felt restrained some on the nose. A bit earthy and mineral and delicate in appearance. Fresh, fruity palate with a cool, again restrained fruit. But adding complexity by the minute. Palate with imperfect balance, some acidity overhang and mouth-coating tannins suggesting more time in the bottle is needed here, in that sense seems to require even more time than the cousins up North in St Estephe where Cos d‘Estournel or Montrose already came across closer to the drinking window (albeit both were decanted and enjoyed over a longer period).
Just hints of aging notes here and less obvious than in the 2014. Held back and felt restrained some on the nose. A bit earthy and mineral and delicate in appearance. Fresh, fruity palate with a cool, again restrained fruit. But adding complexity by the minute. Palate with imperfect balance, some acidity overhang and mouth-coating tannins suggesting more time in the bottle is needed here, in that sense seems to require even more time than the cousins up North in St Estephe where Cos d‘Estournel or Montrose already came across closer to the drinking window (albeit both were decanted and enjoyed over a longer period).
Flight 2 (4 notes)
Red
2006 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Toppings of sweet spices, bright and ripe fruit of forest berries and blueberries. Just a tad of wet leather. Intense, fruity palate with well integrated but very present tannin structure. Unfortunately a rather sudden finish leaving a dry mouth. Otherwise one of the high-fliers here in the Sassicaia line-up and a rare beat vs Margaux.
Toppings of sweet spices, bright and ripe fruit of forest berries and blueberries. Just a tad of wet leather. Intense, fruity palate with well integrated but very present tannin structure. Unfortunately a rather sudden finish leaving a dry mouth. Otherwise one of the high-fliers here in the Sassicaia line-up and a rare beat vs Margaux.
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Comment
Red
2006 Château Margaux
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Mint and menthol at the fore and in fact quite generally heavy on green notes which mask an underlying red fruit. Lots of structure on the palate with omnipresent tannins. This was lacking the array of flavours most other vintages showed and probably the low-light in the Margaux lane - obviously always in the context of this Champions League set-up.
Mint and menthol at the fore and in fact quite generally heavy on green notes which mask an underlying red fruit. Lots of structure on the palate with omnipresent tannins. This was lacking the array of flavours most other vintages showed and probably the low-light in the Margaux lane - obviously always in the context of this Champions League set-up.
Red
2008 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Barnyard and earth, bordering brett even, reveal a well aged nose. The fruit ripe, sporting lots of red cherry. Palate showing a nice, layered selection of mixed berries ranging from red to blue and even the odd dark berry. Balanced with a decent length finish and well integrated tannins, but with a Margaux counterpart pinpointing a comparative lack of elegance I would have hoped for a 95+ score. Nonetheless along with 2006 one of the best Sassicaia bottles here.
Barnyard and earth, bordering brett even, reveal a well aged nose. The fruit ripe, sporting lots of red cherry. Palate showing a nice, layered selection of mixed berries ranging from red to blue and even the odd dark berry. Balanced with a decent length finish and well integrated tannins, but with a Margaux counterpart pinpointing a comparative lack of elegance I would have hoped for a 95+ score. Nonetheless along with 2006 one of the best Sassicaia bottles here.
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Comment
Red
2008 Château Margaux
95 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
The level of precision struck me immediately. A nose of bright berries with herbaceous qualities attached. Black tea, mocha, chocolate add to the amazing sophisticated and linear complexity. Fresh, fruit forward palate with a long finish that impresses with mocha vibes. The complexity wasn’t fully transported, however. An appropriately good performance for the vintage and drinking so well now.
The level of precision struck me immediately. A nose of bright berries with herbaceous qualities attached. Black tea, mocha, chocolate add to the amazing sophisticated and linear complexity. Fresh, fruit forward palate with a long finish that impresses with mocha vibes. The complexity wasn’t fully transported, however. An appropriately good performance for the vintage and drinking so well now.
Flight 3 (4 notes)
Red
2005 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
93 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Red ripe fruit, a tad of heat, dried herbs (black tea), some leather. A rich, fresh, intensely fruity palate. In a good spot right now but maybe a whisker over the top on extraction. Revisiting after a few minutes I found more pronounced dried herbs aromatics which helped to build character.
Red ripe fruit, a tad of heat, dried herbs (black tea), some leather. A rich, fresh, intensely fruity palate. In a good spot right now but maybe a whisker over the top on extraction. Revisiting after a few minutes I found more pronounced dried herbs aromatics which helped to build character.
Red
2005 Château Margaux
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Ripe, dark red fruit. A bit of heat perceptible unfortunately. Otherwise herbs, black tea and a bit of mint. Fresh and fruity palate and not as alcoholic as I feared. Quickly adding additional flavours, more dried herbs, coffee and a bit of leather. But the 2005 couldn't expand the aroma profile as well as other top vintages. Still lots of tannins, too. Will probably need quite a few more years to tame this animal. If you must open a 2005, I would sail East to St Emillion, the Pavie is outstanding!
Ripe, dark red fruit. A bit of heat perceptible unfortunately. Otherwise herbs, black tea and a bit of mint. Fresh and fruity palate and not as alcoholic as I feared. Quickly adding additional flavours, more dried herbs, coffee and a bit of leather. But the 2005 couldn't expand the aroma profile as well as other top vintages. Still lots of tannins, too. Will probably need quite a few more years to tame this animal. If you must open a 2005, I would sail East to St Emillion, the Pavie is outstanding!
Red
2009 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
93 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Very ripe, even slightly cooked red fruit with some green notes and dried herbs. A slow start but improving even after a short while in the glass. On the palate less cooked, rather a fruit in a cool cladding even. Otherwise intense and can‘t shake off a bit of heat. Slightly green tannins with a lot of grip. Not without a certain appeal, to be honest, but not to my personal liking.
Very ripe, even slightly cooked red fruit with some green notes and dried herbs. A slow start but improving even after a short while in the glass. On the palate less cooked, rather a fruit in a cool cladding even. Otherwise intense and can‘t shake off a bit of heat. Slightly green tannins with a lot of grip. Not without a certain appeal, to be honest, but not to my personal liking.
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Red
2009 Château Margaux
98 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
In the very first second it was clear that this was something special. Thinking about the neurotransmitter activity level in my brain I picture blinking Christmas lights everywhere. Signature black coffee, after-eight, faceted berries and just a bit earthy on the nose. This was wave one. Wave two includes green herbs, menthol and spice that adds kinky sexiness. Still lots of tannins but built well into the fabric, holding the fresh acidity in great balance. Adding more layers with wave three offloading a cargo of chocolate, orange zest and even tangerine. When I tried to imagine that we are not even close to the peak here, I nearly fainted. Fully confirms my first impression when in a 50+ Bordeaux 2009 horizontal Margaux came in top (along with, on the left bank, Palmer).
In the very first second it was clear that this was something special. Thinking about the neurotransmitter activity level in my brain I picture blinking Christmas lights everywhere. Signature black coffee, after-eight, faceted berries and just a bit earthy on the nose. This was wave one. Wave two includes green herbs, menthol and spice that adds kinky sexiness. Still lots of tannins but built well into the fabric, holding the fresh acidity in great balance. Adding more layers with wave three offloading a cargo of chocolate, orange zest and even tangerine. When I tried to imagine that we are not even close to the peak here, I nearly fainted. Fully confirms my first impression when in a 50+ Bordeaux 2009 horizontal Margaux came in top (along with, on the left bank, Palmer).
Flight 4 (4 notes)
Red
2010 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Ripe, extracted and precise fruit in an isolated core. Also slightly earthy with some faint wet leather. High octane palate with lots of acidity and tannins, but not at all supple or balanced. I see potential, but for the time being too brute and unrefined.
Ripe, extracted and precise fruit in an isolated core. Also slightly earthy with some faint wet leather. High octane palate with lots of acidity and tannins, but not at all supple or balanced. I see potential, but for the time being too brute and unrefined.
1 person found this helpful
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Red
2010 Château Margaux
97 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Can it get any better than Margaux 2010? Actually yes! 2009. But that aside, you won’t be wanting for more. Herbaceous with lots of black tea, espresso, dried herbs, fresh menthol all orbiting a precise, delineated red berry centerpiece. A nice and layered palate with a fresh fruit core built into a firm and dense structure. Great, silky palate with artistic balance. A fabulous creature of the 2010 fauna. Not quite ready yet, and definitely less so than the 2009, but I would imagine only time will tell which one of those will prevail in the long run.
Can it get any better than Margaux 2010? Actually yes! 2009. But that aside, you won’t be wanting for more. Herbaceous with lots of black tea, espresso, dried herbs, fresh menthol all orbiting a precise, delineated red berry centerpiece. A nice and layered palate with a fresh fruit core built into a firm and dense structure. Great, silky palate with artistic balance. A fabulous creature of the 2010 fauna. Not quite ready yet, and definitely less so than the 2009, but I would imagine only time will tell which one of those will prevail in the long run.
2 people found this helpful
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Red
2015 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Appears older in the nose than on the palate with ripe, hard to define red type of fruit, a dense feel to it and some brett-type of notes. Not showing too much complexity, quite possibly closing down. Palate with stingy acidity and plenty of green tannins providing for an overall greenish flavour. This will need a lot of tile for all pieces to fall in place I fear. Poor fella who bought double-magnums of this... me.
Appears older in the nose than on the palate with ripe, hard to define red type of fruit, a dense feel to it and some brett-type of notes. Not showing too much complexity, quite possibly closing down. Palate with stingy acidity and plenty of green tannins providing for an overall greenish flavour. This will need a lot of tile for all pieces to fall in place I fear. Poor fella who bought double-magnums of this... me.
8 people found this helpful
Comments (4)
Red
2015 Château Margaux
96 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
So here goes 2015. Sweet spices, baking spices, ripe red berry fruit and some mint. Despite the many layers still lightly clad and with a sexiness that reminded me more of Napa than Bordeaux (not the first time this happened with a 2015). Great drop-through of the sweet spices to the fresh, light and fruity palate. Seamless integration of tannins with a silky texture. No doubt young, but drinking amazingly well already! To bad the line-up ended here, would have loved to compare this to 2016. A strong #3 in the overall tasting with plenty of upside left. On the left bank the the second best 2015 I’ve had so far (although need to add the only First Growth), surpassed incidentally only by a close neighbor, the otherworldly Palmer.
So here goes 2015. Sweet spices, baking spices, ripe red berry fruit and some mint. Despite the many layers still lightly clad and with a sexiness that reminded me more of Napa than Bordeaux (not the first time this happened with a 2015). Great drop-through of the sweet spices to the fresh, light and fruity palate. Seamless integration of tannins with a silky texture. No doubt young, but drinking amazingly well already! To bad the line-up ended here, would have loved to compare this to 2016. A strong #3 in the overall tasting with plenty of upside left. On the left bank the the second best 2015 I’ve had so far (although need to add the only First Growth), surpassed incidentally only by a close neighbor, the otherworldly Palmer.
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Flight 5 (4 notes)
Red
2011 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Slightly herbaceous, red type of fruit. Limited complexity here but with a nice, easy drinking palate with inoffensive tannins and pleasant acidity. Didn’t leave me with the impression of much long term potential.
Slightly herbaceous, red type of fruit. Limited complexity here but with a nice, easy drinking palate with inoffensive tannins and pleasant acidity. Didn’t leave me with the impression of much long term potential.
2 people found this helpful
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Red
2011 Château Margaux
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Black coffee, roasted coffee beans and a red bright fruit core. Added spices and herbs. Good balance. Appears very young, but added spices and herbs. and delicacy. Not ideal balance on the palate, but fruity.
Black coffee, roasted coffee beans and a red bright fruit core. Added spices and herbs. Good balance. Appears very young, but added spices and herbs. and delicacy. Not ideal balance on the palate, but fruity.
1 person found this helpful
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Red
2013 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Rather blue berries type of fruit which was atypical in this vertical. Also some coffee and a greenish sting somewhere in the midst of it all. Fresh and youthful palate, in good balance but lacking layers and too heavy-handed for a higher score, but compared very well against the 2013 Margaux.
Rather blue berries type of fruit which was atypical in this vertical. Also some coffee and a greenish sting somewhere in the midst of it all. Fresh and youthful palate, in good balance but lacking layers and too heavy-handed for a higher score, but compared very well against the 2013 Margaux.
1 person found this helpful
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Red
2013 Château Margaux
93 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Bright, light red fruit, some mineral notes of smoke or lava. Otherwise fresh and fruity with lots of red berries. Well structured, but clearly more simple than other vintages. Slightly acidic imbalance on the palate and very fruit-forward. Actually quite respectable given the vintage.
Bright, light red fruit, some mineral notes of smoke or lava. Otherwise fresh and fruity with lots of red berries. Well structured, but clearly more simple than other vintages. Slightly acidic imbalance on the palate and very fruit-forward. Actually quite respectable given the vintage.
Flight 6 (4 notes)
Red
2014 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Uncharacteristic coffee notes and a bit of toffee, smokey notes, dried Provence herbs all surrounding a red and ripe fruit. A slightly bitter, palate with lots of intensity and a bit of heat. But overall, owing to a more complex and nuanced nose one of the top performers in the Sassicaia line-up.
Uncharacteristic coffee notes and a bit of toffee, smokey notes, dried Provence herbs all surrounding a red and ripe fruit. A slightly bitter, palate with lots of intensity and a bit of heat. But overall, owing to a more complex and nuanced nose one of the top performers in the Sassicaia line-up.
1 person found this helpful
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Red
2014 Château Margaux
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Fresh, red cherry fruit core, fresh herbs (the only time in this vertical), also some faint coffee notes. A fresh and fruity palate with an great balance but no aroma complexity. The expert‘s view at the table was that the 2014 is currently closed hence too early to write this off.
Fresh, red cherry fruit core, fresh herbs (the only time in this vertical), also some faint coffee notes. A fresh and fruity palate with an great balance but no aroma complexity. The expert‘s view at the table was that the 2014 is currently closed hence too early to write this off.
2 people found this helpful
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Red
2012 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
92 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Some rather dark red and ripe berry fruit. Palate was surprisingly supple and silky and carrying a lot of fruit, but with limited aroma complexity. Probably save to open 2012 now and hold back on the 2009, 2010 and 2011.
Some rather dark red and ripe berry fruit. Palate was surprisingly supple and silky and carrying a lot of fruit, but with limited aroma complexity. Probably save to open 2012 now and hold back on the 2009, 2010 and 2011.
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Red
2012 Château Margaux
93 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Rather dark red or even blue berries, just a tad of black coffee and black tea, green herbal notes. Lots of acidity on the palate that couldn't quite be balanced with slightly feeble structure an tannins felt a bit green too.
Rather dark red or even blue berries, just a tad of black coffee and black tea, green herbal notes. Lots of acidity on the palate that couldn't quite be balanced with slightly feeble structure an tannins felt a bit green too.
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Flight 7 (2 notes)
Red
2007 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
94 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Ripe, slightly darker red cherry fruit, some herbs, a bit of forest floor, wet leaves. Ripe and comparatively jammy. A slightly leathery palate, lots of intensity. Well structured with some mineral notes too. Top 3 of the Sassicaia line-up and in a pretty good spot.
Ripe, slightly darker red cherry fruit, some herbs, a bit of forest floor, wet leaves. Ripe and comparatively jammy. A slightly leathery palate, lots of intensity. Well structured with some mineral notes too. Top 3 of the Sassicaia line-up and in a pretty good spot.
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Red
2007 Château Margaux
95 points
Sassicaia vs Margaux face-off hosted by a private collector. I was surprised by the unambiguousness of the result in this 13- year (2003-2015) double vertical. Margaux beats Sassicaia 10x with Sassicaia on top only 3x. Of the 26 wines tasted, the top 6 (all scored 95 and higher) were all Margaux with 2009, 2010 and 2015 all somewhere between regal and galactic. In sum, the average score for Margaux was 94.4 (range 92-98) as compared to a Sassicaia average of 93.1 (range 92-94). See tasting story for a few more high level remarks.
Ground coffee beans, forest berry and blue fruit with a sweet, spicy overlay. Delicate and refined offering a lot of pleasure on the nose. Fresh and fruity palate, overall good balance although not as supple as top vintages, but still layered. However, the finish is proving pretty short here.
Ground coffee beans, forest berry and blue fruit with a sweet, spicy overlay. Delicate and refined offering a lot of pleasure on the nose. Fresh and fruity palate, overall good balance although not as supple as top vintages, but still layered. However, the finish is proving pretty short here.
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