Tenuta dell'Ornellaia – Ornellaia 2017 – Tuscany Italy

Ornellaia 2017 is a concentrated Bolgheri red from a particularly hot, dry season. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the blend, with Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc contributing to a firm but balanced expression of the estate.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grapes: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 9% Cabernet Franc
• Region / Appellation: Bolgheri DOC Superiore, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2017
• Aging: About 18 months in barriques (70% new), followed by 12 months in bottle before release
• Alcohol: 15% ABV
• Style: Dry, still red; Cabernet-led blend

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

Ripe red-fruit aromas are joined by sweet tobacco and vanilla. The palate combines concentration and firm structure with a fresh finish, reflecting the balance described by winemaker Olga Fusari in the estate’s assessment of the vintage.

❤️ Why We Love It

• Concentration balanced by freshness in a demanding growing season
• The contribution of winemaker Olga Fusari to this vintage
• Separate parcel vinification followed by extended barrique aging

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Braised beef or short ribs
• Roast lamb with herbs
• Porcini mushroom pasta or aged Pecorino Toscano

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Collectors seeking a concentrated Ornellaia vintage
✓ Cabernet drinkers who enjoy firm structure and ripe fruit
✕ Not ideal if you prefer light-bodied reds or minimal oak influence

Scores

97 points — Vinous
96 points — Jeb Dunnuck
94 points — Wine Spectator