Tenuta Dell'Ornellaia - Masseto 2019
In Bolgheri, on the Tuscan coast, Masseto holds a special place among the great Italian wines thanks to a vineyard entirely dedicated to Merlot and a terroir dominated by deep blue clays. Historically linked to Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, Masseto has gradually built an autonomous identity around this plot that has become emblematic of contemporary Tuscany. The clay soils play an essential role in the wine's personality, providing depth, density, and the ability to retain moisture during the driest periods. The proximity of the Tyrrhenian Sea helps moderate temperatures and promotes regular ripening of the grapes. The 2019 vintage experienced a more gradual ripening cycle than some very sunny years, allowing for the preservation of beautiful freshness and great aromatic precision. This combination resulted in a deep, structured, and remarkably balanced Masseto. The wine stands out for its evident intensity, but also for a fine texture and tension that give it great aging potential.
Masseto 2019 is made exclusively from Merlot, harvested separately according to the different vineyard sectors to respect the nuances of ripeness and terroir. The plots richest in clay provide power and depth, while the other areas contribute to the finesse and balance of the whole. The grapes are vinified in batches, allowing precise adaptation of extraction to the personality of each origin. Fermentation and maceration are conducted to build a dense matter while maintaining a fine tannic grain. Aging in French oak barrels then gradually refines the structure and promotes the integration of fruit, wood, and tannins. The 2019 vintage is characterized by a remarkable combination of concentration and freshness, with a sensation of depth that never becomes heavy. Still young, the wine has a compact architecture that will gain complexity over the years.
The color shows a very deep garnet with still intense purple reflections. The nose opens on blackberry, black plum, and cherry, accompanied by violet, cocoa, and licorice. With aeration, nuances of graphite, cedar, fine spices, and a balsamic touch gradually appear, adding relief to the bouquet. The palate is ample and velvety, with tight but very fine tannins that provide depth without harshness. The black fruit remains precise and intense, supported by freshness that maintains a beautiful tension through to the finish. Notes of cocoa, tobacco, fine earth, and spices gradually gain importance and should further complexify with aging. The finish is long, structured, and persistent; Masseto 2019 will accompany a roasted beef fillet, a rack of lamb, pigeon, porcini risotto, or refined cuisine around black truffle.
Grape variety: 100% Merlot
