Grappa Spectator: grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia by Poli tasting notes and review

The grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia made by Poli distillery is a very ambitious grappa, born from the distillation of Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc pomace and then age for 4 years and 6 months in the same barrels of Sassicaia.

The pomace is from the famous Bolgheri wine too and with such a noble origin it could only be a grappa of great personality. The structure is ample, the aromas intense, the aromatic profile is clean and elegantly declined and the spiciness despite being very marked and stylized adds a certain variety.

If it is undeniable that this Grappa is sumptuous and elegant, it is equally true that the make-up of this grappa is heavy. It has been clearly sculpted by a refinement that leads to a predictable aromatic development. It is also true that with such a power of distillate, the refinement had to be of equal intensity, however, it is recommended only for those who love very oaked grappas.

This does not mean that it is not good, in fact, it is excellent, but be ready for a piloted distillate where the aromas you will sip are mainly due to wood.

The grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia made by Poli distillery

The aromas are mostly spices and roasting aromas that come from wood. The soul of grappa is hidden under this mantle of somewhat artificial elegance that almost resembles a dessert rather than a grappa.

What does grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia from Poli taste like?

In the mouth, it’s warm, structured, ethereal, but a little too smug. The taste is nice, fragrant and well modeled. The thickness is undeniable, the persistence is but it’s a bit boring. It lacks finesse and drinkability; if you like to bite a piece of wood is ok.

Price of the grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia from Poli distillery

60-70 euros for the 0.50-liter bottle. It is a valid and well-made grappa, which hides a long and painstaking process, so if you like the oaky style, it is worth it.

Grappa di Bolgheri Sassicaia Poli food pairings

Excellent with chocolate, creamy desserts such as cheesecake and panna cotta: chocolate mousse, pear and chocolate tart, strawberry and white chocolate cheesecake, dark chocolate banana bread, chocolate brownies.