Le Difese 2023 is the perfect introduction to the Tenuta San Guido family — the legendary Bolgheri estate behind Sassicaia. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, it captures both structure and Tuscan charm. Aromas of red cherry, cassis, violet and sweet spice lead into a supple palate of ripe fruit, herbs and soft oak.

Fresh, balanced and instantly enjoyable, this vintage shows refined tannins, lively acidity and a graceful mineral finish. With critical praise for its precision and drinkability, Le Difese 2023 continues to redefine what an “entry-level” Super Tuscan can be — expressive, elegant and unmistakably from one of Italy’s most revered estates.

Tenuta San Guido, nestled in the scenic Bolgheri region of Tuscany, is renowned for its influential role in the “Super Tuscan” wine revolution. The estate’s flagship wine, Sassicaia, was first crafted in 1948 by Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, who sought to replicate the esteemed wines of Bordeaux. Sassicaia’s breakthrough came in 1978 when it outperformed top Bordeaux wines in a blind tasting, catapulting Tenuta San Guido to global fame. This wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, thrives in Bolgheri’s distinctive stony soils, setting a new standard for Italian winemaking.

The history of Tenuta San Guido is rich with intriguing details. The estate was founded by Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, inspired by the French winemaking tradition. The name “Sassicaia” is derived from the Italian word “sasso,” meaning stone, reflecting the vineyard’s rocky terrain. Interestingly, Sassicaia was initially produced solely for family consumption and was not commercially available until the 1968 vintage.

Beyond Sassicaia, Tenuta San Guido produces two other distinguished wines: Guidalberto and Le Difese. Guidalberto, introduced in 2000, offers a more accessible yet still refined expression of the estate’s terroir, blending Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot. Le Difese, first released in 2002, is a versatile and smooth wine that combines Cabernet Sauvignon with Sangiovese, showcasing a typically Tuscan character. These wines collectively underscore the estate’s dedication to quality and innovation, solidifying Tenuta San Guido’s status as a cornerstone of Italian viticulture.

Sangiovese (55%)

Cabernet Sauvignon (45%)

Tuscany