Tenuta dell'Ornellaia
To open a bottle is to release a liquid kaleidoscope. A rare combination of sumptuous opulence and polished elegance. In tribute to its robust strength, its smoothness and the debt it owes to the soil from which it springs, Masseto is named after the blue clay rock clusters called “massi” that form on the surface of the vineyard. A general consensus has emerged, not only among critics but also among collectors, that Masseto is the greatest expression of Merlot to be found in Italy – arguably the most desirable and prestigious. The arrival of super consultant Michel Rolland sealed its fate and Masseto was quickly dubbed ‘the Pétrus of Italy’, thanks to its breathtaking quality and Rolland’s roots in Pomerol.
Aged for two full years in 50% new oak, the fruit has more than enough structure and intensity to easily accommodate and integrate this level. In such a hot climate, the main concern for the Masseto team is high sugar levels, extreme ripeness which in turn leads to excessively high alcohol. This is a balancing act of the highest order, but one in which the current vigneron Axel Heinz walks perfectly through each vintage.
The small vineyard produces only 35,000 bottles
Awards
100/100 James Suckling; 100/100 Robert Parker; 100/100 Jeb Dunnuck
Allergens information
Contains sulphites.
SKU: 101608-1
