Ornellaia 2018

Bolgheri DOC Superiore Rosso

51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc & 2% Petit Verdot.

We have just tried two vintages of Ornellaia back to back: 2017 and 2018. 2017 as a vintage was marked by excess warmth through the growing season, coupled by water stress. Conversely, 2018 saw excessive winter rainfall which was a great relief for vines and viticulturalists alike, coming off such a tough summer. Through the growing season, conditions were much more moderate than the previous year and certainly without the heat spikes that stamped the ’17 vintage. The resulting wines are worlds apart. The 2017 is a powerhouse with a lot of weight and power, austerity through the back palate and burly tannins that will take some time to soften. At the other end of the scale is the beautiful 2018 release. Elegant, refined, chiselled and complete. No less age-worthy and already a delight to drink. There will be those of you who want both in the cellar, and this is of course encouraged, but if you are only to buy one vintage, it has to be the 2018.– Ches Cook, FWC.

“Closed but rippled with character, the wet stones that speak of minerality and juice, and a ton of liquorice root and red berry fruits. This is sweet through the attack and savoury on the finish, with silky tannins, no question of its complexity. Aromatics of rosemary and sage by the handful alongside raspberry leaf and charred leather as it opens fully in the glass. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 70% new oak for ageing for 18 months, then a further 12 months in bottle before release. Drinking Window 2024 – 2042. 96 points.” – Jane Anson, Decanter.