Enrico Fossi’s estate lies on the edge of Florence, in a place called Signa, which is technically called Chianti Colli Fiorentini. Fossi has been recognized for making quality wines with international varieties that can compete with France and California but still retain their Italian identity. Some have said that his Sassoforte is the best expression of a 100% cabernet ever to be produced on Italian soil. Stylistically, this wine is huge but more balanced and refined than any he has ever produced.
I have to say that I was close to really loving this wine, and I can appreciate it — there certainly are some appealing characteristics — and there are many people that probably would really love this. I was just a little overwhelmed — it was almost like drinking a port — a little too much alcohol and sweetness, but also very complex. Lots of beautiful fruit. Cassis, cherry, rhubarb and some minerality and graphite.
I’m still looking forward to checking in on this tonight and see how it has evolved.
On day 3 this wine is really showing nicely, it has softened and mellowed –not as hot and syrupy — don’t get nearly as much stewed fruit as I did before — much more enjoyable than day 1.
The Wine Advocate
The 1999 Sassoforte is one of the finest Cabernets made in Tuscany in the 1990’s. Pure and focused cassis fruit, graphite, licorice, and tar are matched by a driving power and intensity, a deep-pile texture, and exceptional balance, poise, and breed – the classic iron fist in a velvet glove, and a wine which will surely last another two decades. Score: 95. —Daniel Thomases, April 2004.
Hello…
….i’m interested to buy some bottle of sassoforte!
What is to do, when i will get this??
greatings
Hamberger
I would suggest using wine-searcher.com.
1999 vintage
http://www.wine-searcher.com/find/Sassoforte/1999/USA-/USD/A/-/0
2000 vintage
http://www.wine-searcher.com/find/Sassoforte/2000/USA-/USD/A/-/0
Italian Wine Merchants in NYC is also a good option. That is if you are in the U.S.
Greetings,
Very interesting web site. Found it researching my family tree and the Enrico Fossi winery. This is the first mention of his Sassoforte I have found. It sounds like a late harvest wine, high in alcohol and maybe some residual sugar? I’m a sangiovese grape growing in northern california and sale most my grapes but do make about 120 gallons or so for friends. I know this is out of the ordinary but I was wondering if you had any more information on the exact where abouts of Enrico’s winery. What I know so far is that it lies on the edge of Florence, in a place called Signa. If you can provide any other information it would be greatly appreciated.
Regards,
Jim
I can point you to an article on Italian Wine Merchants website — but doesn’t see to have much more information than you noted.
http://www.italianwinemerchantstore.com/wineshop/producer/fossi.html
It is not a late harvest wine — but definitely very ripe when harvested.
Good luck with your family tree research — and hope it is a good year for your grapes!
Are there any importers in the UK? I tried some Sassaoforte in Florence last year and loved it. I’d love to try some more. Any ideas?
I would contact Montecastelli Selections:
e-mail: ufficio@montecastelli.com
Tel: +39-0577-300011
Fax: +39-0577-300950
Strada di Pieve a Castello 10
53035 Monteriggioni (SI)