2023 - Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia, Ornellaia, Bolgheri

Savoury, moreish, mouthwatering, what more could you want? Expect generous amounts of black fruits riven through with dried herbs, olive tapenade, fennel, crushed rose petals, liqourice root and so much joy. Stainless steel fermentation, 30% new oak for ageing, followed by six months in bottle before release. Marco Balsimelli had arrived at the estate by this point, so changes were underfoot.

A blend of 44% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot, the Ornellaia 2023 Bolgheri Rosso Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia shows a nicely concentrated appearance and balanced aromas from what was ultimately a very strong vintage. The 2023 growing season saw pressure from downy mildew, but steady coastal winds helped keep the fruit healthy. A dry August followed by a rain-free September allowed for even ripening on the estate’s reddish sand and clay soils. Harvest was carefully timed to avoid the risk of over-ripeness, resulting in a wine with rich fruit, a velvety texture and impressive concentration. (The overripe fruit appears in the entry-level Le Volte dell'Ornellaia instead.) The tannins are refined and seamlessly integrated with no hard edges, while freshness on the finish balances the weight of fruit.

The 2023 Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia is a delight. Crushed flowers, ripe red cherry fruit, spice, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco are all nicely laced together. This mid-weight Serre Nuove is notable for its forward fruit, mid-weight structure and overall appeal. Floral top notes extend the effortless, silky finish.