Wines Bolgheri Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido 2022 is an expressive red wine from the prestigious Bolgheri DOC, situated on the Tuscan coast of Italy. Produced by Tenuta San Guido, the legendary estate best known for Sassicaia, Guidalberto is often considered its approachable sibling. Typically, it is a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, harmoniously complemented by Merlot, and occasionally a touch of other Bordeaux varieties, although the precise blend may shift each vintage. The 2022 vintage likely offers a vibrant profile with generous fruit purity thanks to warm conditions and careful viticulture. Vinification is focused on elegance, employing stainless steel fermentation and ageing partly in French and American oak, lending structure and a finely-integrated spiciness.

The Bolgheri region is famed for its production of ‘Super Tuscans’, pioneering high-quality wines that draw on international grape varieties established in the area since the late 20th century. The terroir benefits greatly from proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea, which moderates the climate and encourages steady ripening. The soils here are a complex interplay of sandy clay, limestone, and gravel, providing excellent drainage and imparting a mineral backbone to the wines. Historically, Bolgheri was overshadowed by more established Tuscan denominations, but has rapidly ascended to become a touchstone of modern Italian viticulture thanks to its blend of traditional and innovative practices.

With its structure and freshness, Guidalberto complements grilled red meats such as Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina), as well as richer pasta dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragu). It also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like aged pecorino, and even with Mediterranean lamb or herbed roast pork, accentuating the wine’s complexity and savoury notes.

For optimum enjoyment, serve Guidalberto at 16–18°C after decanting it for an hour to reveal its aromatic depth and supple tannins. This approach highlights its youthful energy and layered character, making for a truly memorable tasting experience.