($220; 85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc) Bright red-ruby. Complex nose melds red cherry, blackcurrant, minerals, dried herbs and a delicate oaky vanillin nuance; the fruit aromas show an almost roasted quality without going over the top. Sweet, concentrated and nicely fresh, with an impression of strong extract and a hint of exotic fruits to the flavors of ripe red and dark berries, chocolate, plum and wild herbs. The candied fruit quality carries through on the long, smooth finish, where there's a trace of heat and hints of menthol and minerals. A very successful Sassicaia but, in my notebook, just a little below the lofty heights of the 2001 or 2004. But given the quality of this wine, that's quibbling. (Kobrand, Inc., New York NY)

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Firm crimson. Silky tannins. Very confident and polished. Quite high acidity – more so than the Solaias tasted immediately beforehand. Fine and rather Lafite-like in structure.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

The 2006 Sassicaia may very well go down as one of the all-time great recent vintages for this Tuscan thoroughbred. The year started off very warm but by August evening temperatures had moderated, leaving the fruit with a stunning combination of ripeness, perfume, acidity and tannin. The wine is simply glorious, that's all there is to it. Layers of dark fruit meld into smoke, leather, violets, menthol, earthiness and tar as this profound wine opens up in the glass. The creamy, silky finish lasts an eternity, as waves of fruit caress the tannins with breathtaking elegance. Everything is in the right place in this magical Sassicaia. This is one for the ages. In a word: Awesome.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Displays sweet tobacco, plum and berry aromas, with a jammy undertone, turning to licorice on the palate. Full-bodied and balanced, with silky tannins, a lovely texture and plenty of fruit. Outstanding Sassicaia, with structure and finesse. 85 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 15 percent Cabernet Franc.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Definitely a good wine. A great blend of currants, plum, blackberries and a hint of coffee on the nose. Everything is seamless and well integrated. But this wine has no finish. I have tasted far better Cabernets and Super Tuscans at a much lower price. It seems to be priced on reputation, not current quality.