Tenuta Dell'Ornellaia - Masseto 2015
In Bolgheri, on the Tuscan coast, Masseto holds a unique place among great Italian wines due to its radical choice to dedicate an entire terroir to Merlot. The vineyard stretches over a small hill whose famous blue clays constitute the determining geological element. Deep and compact, they retain moisture and allow the vine to maintain a regular balance during hot and dry periods. The different areas of the estate are monitored separately to adapt vineyard work and harvest dates to each soil expression. This precise parcel management allows obtaining grapes combining ripeness, depth, and freshness despite the naturally generous character of Merlot under the Bolgheri climate. The 2015 vintage is among the sunny and particularly favorable years in Tuscany, with homogeneous ripeness and a beautiful concentration of berries. Masseto translates this success into a broad and deep register, where richness is accompanied by remarkable texture finesse.
Masseto 2015 is made exclusively from Merlot. Grapes from different parcels are harvested separately and then vinified individually to preserve their identity until the final blend. The naturally dense matter of the vintage allows for a progressive extraction, aimed more at refining the tannins than reinforcing an already present power in the grape. Aging in French oak barrels then accompanies the wine over an extended period, with lots remaining separate during the first part of their maturation. After blending, the wine continues its refinement to gradually harmonize fruit, tannic structure, and aging. The 2015 is characterized by significant but particularly well-integrated concentration, supported by freshness that gives relief to the richness of Merlot. After more than a decade in bottle, it begins to develop a more complex palette while retaining considerable aging potential.
The color remains very deep, a nearly opaque garnet with strong ruby reflections. The nose unfolds blackberry, black plum, and ripe cherry, soon accompanied by violet, licorice, and cocoa. Aeration reveals nuances of tobacco, spices, cedar, and balsamic notes that bring freshness to the bouquet. The palate is broad and enveloping, with a velvety texture carried by dense but remarkably fine tannins. The richness of black fruit is accompanied by notes of bitter chocolate, graphite, and spices, never losing the tension necessary for balance. The finish is particularly long, deep, and persistent, with a mineral and balsamic dimension that prolongs the fruit. Masseto 2015 will accompany a beef filet with porcini mushrooms, roasted pigeon, rack of lamb, game birds, or refined cuisine around black truffle.
Grape variety: 100% Merlot
