Tenuta dell'Ornellaia is a Bolgheri estate which lies in the heart of Tuscany's coastal region, Maremma, also home to Sassicaia. The estate is one of the icon wineries of Italy, producing some of the finest Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in Tuscany, grown in the alluvial, volcanic, and marine-based soils which comprise the region’s terroir.

Founded by Marchese Lodovico Antinori in 1981, Ornellaia’s first vineyard plantings were in 1982 and the new winery started operations with the 1985 vintage. Robert Mondavi and Marchesi de' Frescobaldi became co-owners of the estate in 2002, but since 2005, the estate has been exclusively owned by Marchesi de' Frescobaldi.

Grapes which are not designated for the winery’s flagship Bordeaux-styled release Ornellaia, one of the first Super Tuscans, are "declassified" to the production of Le Serre Nuove, which usually has more Merlot, and sees less oak influence. The winery produces several other labels, including Le Volte, a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as a Sauvignon Blanc, Poggio alla Gazze, and Ornus, a sweet, late harvest wine from Petit Manseng.

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia also owns the Masseto winery and estate, which produces an equally world-renowned and lauded single-vineyard Merlot.

The desire to nurture the estate’s exceptional qualities has shaped Ornellaia’s philosophy since the beginning. The flagship wine Ornellaia is one of the first and finest Super Tuscans, a cuvee of Bordeaux varieties Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

The 2020 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia is a remarkable red wine that hails from the prestigious Bolgheri region in Tuscany, Italy. Crafted by the renowned producer Tenuta dell'Ornellaia, this wine is a proprietary blend that exemplifies the artistry and expertise of the winemaking team.

In the glass, this wine showcases a deep, garnet-red color that is both alluring and enticing. Its intense hue hints at the concentration and complexity that awaits within each sip. On the nose, the aromas are captivating and expressive, with notes of black bramble fruit taking center stage. This bouquet is further enhanced by hints of toasted oak, pencil shavings, Spanish cedar, and campfire ash, creating a multi-dimensional olfactory experience.

Upon tasting, the 2020 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia reveals its full-bodied nature and impressive structure. The palate is filled with luscious dark fruit flavors that are complemented by undertones of balsamic black and sweet blue fruits. The wine's plush tannins provide a velvety mouthfeel, while a touch of wet stone, cola, and liquorice adds depth and complexity. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of dark sticky liquorice and bitter orange zest.

This vintage of Ornellaia is notably concentrated and oak-driven, showcasing the winery's commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality and character. While it can be enjoyed now, the 2020 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia will benefit from additional aging, allowing its tight and firm structure to further evolve and integrate.

Renowned wine critics have praised this wine for its outstanding qualities. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 95, highlighting its abundant concentration and the need for further aging. Decanter also awarded it an impressive score of 96, noting its sublime texture, refined austerity, and layering. James Suckling awarded it a remarkable score of 98, describing its alluring aromas and focused tannins.

Overall, the 2020 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia is a wine that exemplifies the pinnacle of winemaking in Tuscany. Its impeccable craftsmanship, intense flavors, and complex aromas make it a true masterpiece that will undoubtedly impress even the most discerning wine enthusiasts. This wine is a testament to the rich traditions and exceptional terroir of the Bolgheri region, and it is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to all who have the pleasure of experiencing it.