1998 Marchesi Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Bolgheri Superiore
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Tasting notes
1998 was better than 1997 in Bolgheri. In Chianti the tannins are a bit too tough in 1998. (Like 2008, just as 1997 is like 2007.) Dark crimson with rusty rim. Dusty claret nose with some extra ripeness. Lots of savoury, dried-leaf character on the finish and some heat. The acidity is quite noticeable, perhaps starting to dominate the fruit, although there are still some tannins in evidence. This has aged very nicely but it’s a little frail at this point. (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
Robert Parker
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Bolgheri is the source for some of Italy's greatest proprietary red wine blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. No other region in the world (other than Pomerol and St.-Emilion) has produced such great Merlots. The 1998 Guado Al Tasso (a 60% Cabernet Sauvignon/30% Merlot/10% Syrah blend) was fashioned from extremely small yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare, spent 14 months in 100% new French oak, and was bottled with minimal clarification. Malolactic was also done in barrel, so the wood is nicely assimilated. The dense ruby/purple-colored 1998 offers a glorious perfume of coffee, chocolate, blackberries, cassis, and vanillin. Dense, rich, supple-textured, and fruity as well as elegant, it will drink well for 10-12 years.
Bolgheri is the source for some of Italy's greatest proprietary red wine blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. No other region in the world (other than Pomerol and St.-Emilion) has produced such great Merlots. The 1998 Guado Al Tasso (a 60% Cabernet Sauvignon/30% Merlot/10% Syrah blend) was fashioned from extremely small yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare, spent 14 months in 100% new French oak, and was bottled with minimal clarification. Malolactic was also done in barrel, so the wood is nicely assimilated. The dense ruby/purple-colored 1998 offers a glorious perfume of coffee, chocolate, blackberries, cassis, and vanillin. Dense, rich, supple-textured, and fruity as well as elegant, it will drink well for 10-12 years. Importer: Remy Amerique, New York, NY; tel. (212) 399-0200
About the producer
Marchesi Antinori is a leading Italian producer, historically based in Tuscany, who rose to fame after creating Tignanello – one of the first Super Tuscans . Combining tradition and innovation to craft fine wine, the family-owned firm has been a force in the Italian wine industry for over 600 years.