Ornellaia Masseto Red Blend 2021 with Black Case

Masseto is a rare, single vineyard wine made entirely from Merlot grapes grown on the vineyard bearing the same name. Located in the vaunted Bolgheri region of Tuscany, Masseto was first released in 1986 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the world's most sought after and extremely allocated wines.

Where the Masseto vineyard now stands, there was once a coastal marsh centuries ago, over which clay deposits formed. The clay was covered by thick deposits of gravel, sand and rock fragments. This geologically diverse terroir is one reason Merlot thrives in the Masseto vineyard. Another contributor is the combination of Mediterranean sun and a gentle wind that keeps the temperatures moderate during the summer. Among the first people to realize the potential of the great terroir of the Masseto hill was the great Russian-American oenologist, André Tchelistcheff, who contributed to the conception of Masseto in the early 1980s. His vision is shared by the vineyard and winemaking staff who pay the utmost attention to every detail in the vineyard and winery.

The Ornellaia Masseto Red Blend 2021 returns to its classic composition after a couple of vintages that included a small percentage of Cabernet Franc. Tasting notes consistently highlight a wine of remarkable elegance, finesse, and concentration. Aromas often include a harmony of vibrant dark fruits like plum, blackberry, and blueberry, intertwined with notes of violets, spice, chocolate, and hints of savory elements like graphite and wet earth. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet refined, with a plush, silky texture, finely-grained tannins, and a vibrant acidity that provides freshness and length.

Score

"It may be the best vintage of this cuvée that I have tasted to date."--Jeb Dunnuck, 100 points.