The 2018 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia is a proprietary blend from the renowned Bolgheri sub-region of Tuscany, Italy. This red wine, composed predominantly of Merlot (51%), with significant contributions from Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), Cabernet Franc (7%), and Petit Verdot (2%), stands out for its meticulous craftsmanship and aging process. The wine underwent fermentation in oak barrels, with 70% being new and 30% once used, followed by 18 months in barriques, and an additional 12 months of bottle aging before release.
Decanter praised the wine's charisma and complexity, awarding it a score of 97. The review highlighted its "abundant and packed full of flavour" nature, with a palate enriched by "milk chocolate, leather, almost-sour cherries, blackcurrants and liquorice spicing," accompanied by a silky texture and persistent freshness. The fermentation and aging process was noted for its role in creating a dense yet refined wine.
James Suckling also rated it 97, emphasizing its aromatic complexity with "blackcurrants, blueberries, fresh violets and lavender," and a palate marked by firm yet polished tannins. He described it as a wine with "strength in elegance," advising to try it after 2025 for optimal enjoyment.
Vinous' Antonio Galloni echoed the high praise with another 97 score, describing the 2018 Ornellaia as an "introvert" at this stage, with hints of "red berry fruit, mocha, spice, licorice and dried flowers." Galloni suggested that the wine's balance and persistence indicate it will gain more weight and complexity with further aging.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 95 points, noting the wine's seamless integration and precision. Monica Larner pointed out the blend's harmony, particularly with Merlot taking a leading role for the first time, and described flavors of "blackberry and dried cherry segue to spice, tar, campfire ash and more sweet fruit."
Wine Spectator, Wine & Spirits, Jane Anson, and Jeb Dunnuck also provided glowing reviews, each scoring it 95 or higher. Common themes in their evaluations included the wine's sophisticated balance, polished tannins, and potential for long-term aging. Jeb Dunnuck summed it up as a "gem of a wine" that will continue to evolve over the next 30-40 years.
In summary, the 2018 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia is a wine of exceptional quality, highly praised for its complexity, balance, and aging potential. It stands as a testament to the expertise of its producers and the unique terroir of Bolgheri.