The 2021 Orma Proprietary Blend, produced by Orma in Bolgheri, Tuscany, has garnered high praise from several esteemed wine critics. This red wine, composed of 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Cabernet Franc, is notable for its rich, complex profile and excellent balance.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 96, highlighting its "spicy, brambly berry aromas with some dusty wood and chocolate notes," and praising its "super-fresh acidity" and "fine web of silky tannins." The publication noted the wine's "long, succulent and fresh" finish, with a perfect blend of black fruits, spice, and chocolate.
James Suckling also gave this wine a 96, describing it as having "aromas of herbs such as basil and bay leaf with currants," and noting the "creamy and round tannins" with "lots of coffee bean and walnut undertones." He emphasized its "velvety texture" and suggested that while it is drinkable now, it will be even better in three to five years.
The Wine Independent echoed these sentiments, also scoring the wine 96. They described it as "bursting from the glass with bold notes of stewed black plums, boysenberry preserves, and underbrush," complemented by "hints of cedar chest, tar, and bay leaves." The review highlighted its "big, concentrated, full-bodied palate" and "invigorating mineral lift."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated the wine 95, calling it "heady and opulent" with a bouquet of "black fruit, plum, spice, and floral highlights of lilac or blue flower." The review noted its suitability as a food wine, particularly recommending it alongside grilled lamb with mint sauce.
Wine Spectator also gave it a score of 95, describing the wine as "broad and dense yet lively," with flavors of "plum, blackberry, vanilla, and chocolate," accented by "toasty oak." The review mentioned a "hint of rose" and suggested it would be best from 2026 through 2045.
Vinous provided a slightly lower score of 93 but still praised the wine as "rich" and "heady," with a "sumptuous, flamboyant" character, featuring "succulent dark red plum, spice, new leather, mocha, and menthol."
Finally, Jeff Leve from The Wine Cellar Insider gave the wine a score of 92, noting its floral, dark red berry, espresso, and spearmint aromas. He described it as "medium/full-bodied, forward, and round in texture," and recommended it for early enjoyment, from 2024-2035.
Overall, the 2021 Orma Proprietary Blend stands out for its aromatic complexity, balanced structure, and potential for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.