At a glance

Producer

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia

Region

Bolgheri DOC, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Bordeaux Blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$250-$400 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe blackcurrant, plum, espresso, graphite, dried herbs, new oak spice, with polished tannins and great balance.

Evolution: Expect increasing tertiary notes: leather, tobacco, cedar; tannins will soften, complexity and integration increase.

At peak: Exemplary balance of freshness, depth, and aromatic complexity with seamless structure and velvety tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balancing the richness

Tannins

Firm, ripe, well-integrated

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

High—capable of outstanding evolution for 15-20+ years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2035

Optimal window

2022 to 2038

Current status

Entering optimal window

Current condition

Excellent structure; young but integrated. Can be enjoyed now with decanting or held for further aging.

2015 was an outstanding Tuscan vintage. The wine’s balance and concentration ensure it will develop beautifully, blossoming with secondary and tertiary notes between 2025 and 2035. Cabernet’s structure supports longevity, while Merlot’s opulence lends early approachability.

Food pairing

Tuscan bistecca alla fiorentina, roasted lamb with rosemary, aged Parmesan, game meats, dishes with black truffle.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To synergize aromatics and soften tannins, opening up complexity in youth.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated vineyard management with precision viticulture, organic matter enrichment, biodiversity zones, partial use of organic treatments, recycling of water, solar energy coverage at the winery, eco-friendly packaging (lighter bottles, FSC-certified cartons), extensive replanting and biodiversity initiatives.

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia has made major investments in environmental stewardship (vineyard biodiversity, water reuse, green energy, and waste minimization). They have not sought organic or biodynamic certifications, but follow many best practices and support sustainable viticulture. Packaging and cellar innovation are strong, yet international distribution increases total footprint. Overall, Ornellaia is committed to ongoing improvements and scores well for sustainability relative to most luxury producers in the region, though not at the cutting edge of certified sustainable wine.