Tenuta Guado al Tasso Bolgheri 2011 750ml

A wine of the aromatic intensity and silkiness of texture was something rather unexpected in such a hot vintage as the 2011. The Merlot gave sweetness of flavor, density of texture, and a very intense aroma of black fruit. The Cabernet Sauvignon contributed an exceptional richness along with additional black fruit aromas and licorice. Cabernet Franc added a magnificent balance and poise, smoothing the elevated tannic power of the other varieties and the Petit Verdot supplied that light touch of spice which completed the bouquet. This is a concentrated wine, one of great class and elegance, a wine capable of a very lengthy aging and positive evolution in the bottle.

95 Points - James Suckling

A dense, layered red with asphalt, berry and clove character. Figs too. Full body, chewy tannins and a juicy finish. Needs time to soften. Better in 2017.

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Forever the superstar, the 2011 Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso is a delicious wine that never holds back in terms of intensity and seamless integration. Every detail has been finessed. The blend is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. Each vineyard parcel is fermented separately to maintain varietal identity. The wine's appearance is dark and luscious with thick extraction and a vibrant dark garnet hue. Generous aromas of dark fruit, tobacco and chocolate lift steadily from the glass. The mouthfeel is soft and yielding with a great sense of tannic persistency that holds up the finish, which can be counted in many long minutes. Give this wine five years or more to fully evolve.

95 Points - Wine & Spirits

The 2011 Guado al Tasso is remarkably approachable for such a structured wine. Powerful yet refined tannins weave through flavors of blackberry, plum, black pepper, fennel and tobacco, providing structure without impeding flavor. The wine aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, including six months after blending. Silky and juicy, the flavors unfold in overlapping layers, spiraling upward with impressive energy and drive. Still fresh on the third day of tasting, this has a long life ahead even as it offers immense pleasure now.

92 Points - Wine Spectator

Inky in both color and flavor, with black currant and blackberry notes, this is pure and focused, with well-integrated tannins and a saturated finish echoing the fruit. Best from 2016 through 2024.