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.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the exquisite 2017 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia. Hailing from the renowned Bolgheri region in Tuscany, Italy, this red wine is the epitome of elegance and finesse.

In the glass, the 2017 Ornellaia displays a deep, ruby red color that entices the eye. The nose is immediately greeted by a captivating interplay of aromas, showcasing a delightful melange of mocha, cedar, tobacco, and licorice. These enticing scents are complemented by soft curves that add to its sensuality and allure. This wine is a true masterpiece, crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

On the palate, the 2017 Ornellaia offers a rich and sumptuous experience. The blend of young vine Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, harvested in August for the first time ever, gives this wine a unique character. It is both velvety and lively, with a perfect balance of richness and energy. The wine's body is full and robust, yet it remains remarkably fresh and vibrant.

Renowned wine critic Antonio Galloni describes the 2017 Ornellaia as "superb," a true testament to its exceptional quality. With a score of 97, it is clear that this wine has captivated the palates of experts in the industry. James Suckling praises its firm and chewy tannins, which provide structure and intensity, while Robert Parker's Wine Advocate highlights the wine's generous fruit-forwardness and notes of black olive and wild sage.

As for its aging potential, this wine is built to last. Jeb Dunnuck suggests that the 2017 Ornellaia will evolve and improve over the next 30-40 years or more, making it a wise investment for any discerning collector.

In conclusion, the 2017 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia is a masterpiece that exudes elegance, complexity, and a true sense of place. It is a wine that demands attention and admiration, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.