I just drank this in Zurich today and it is clearly the best Sassicaia since 1988, and it gets better and better in the bottle. It really does remind me of the awesome 1988, which can be better than the legendary 1985. The 1998 shows so many layers of dark fruit, cedar and terra cotta on the nose. It's intense and powerful; stony with sweet tobacco and berry undertones plus currants and sultanas. It's full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and great depth. It's not completely open yet. Decant two hours in advance before serving.

Lovely, subtle yet complex aromas of currants, sage and green olives lead to a full-bodied red with a solid core of fruit and well-integrated tannins. Still very reserved on the finish, but those who are patient should be rewarded. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Bright, full red-ruby with a hint of amber at the rim. Nuanced, scented nose combines raspberry, blackcurrant, tobacco, warm stones and an intriguing citrussy nuance. Suave, rich and complex, with creamy, concentrated red plum, tobacco and mocha flavors of considerable sweetness. Finishes savory and minerally, with smooth tannins and lovely lingering perfume. A very big success for what has turned out to be an excellent vintage in the Bolgheri area.

The 1998 Sassicaia exhibits a dense ruby color with purple highlights and a classic nose of cedar, spice box, licorice, and black currants. Medium-bodied, powerful, extracted, and rich as well as elegant and well-balanced, it requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should evolve for 15-20.