Wines Bolgheri Ornellaia - Bolgheri Superiore - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Ornellaia 2019 is a distinguished Bolgheri Superiore, an exceptional red blend from the renowned Tenuta dell’Ornellaia estate. Produced in the prestigious Bolgheri DOC appellation of Tuscany, this wine is typically composed of international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and sometimes Petit Verdot. The 2019 vintage was characterised by a balanced growing season with moderate rainfall and notably warm days, resulting in grapes with ideal ripeness and concentration. Vinified with meticulous attention, the wine spends a prolonged period ageing in French oak barrels—often up to 18 months—contributing both structure and complexity. The result is a deeply coloured, elegant red offering a harmonious combination of ripe dark fruit, fine tannins, and refined woody and spicy notes, all underpinned by a vibrant freshness.

Bolgheri, located along Tuscany’s Maremma coastline, is a relatively young but celebrated wine region. Historically, the area’s sandy-clay soils were overlooked, but in recent decades, they have demonstrated remarkable potential for Bordeaux grape varieties, thanks largely to pioneering estates like Ornellaia. The coastal Mediterranean climate provides long, sunny summers tempered by sea breezes, promoting slow and even grape ripening. This microclimate fosters wines of power balanced by finesse, often with a unique mineral vibrancy reflecting the region’s terroir. Since earning DOC status in 1994, Bolgheri has become synonymous with Italy’s ‘Super Tuscan’ movement and is home to some of the most sought-after wines in the world.

Ornellaia 2019 deserves robust food pairings that can match its depth and nuance. Classic Tuscan cuisine—such as bistecca alla fiorentina (grilled T-bone steak), wild boar ragù with pappardelle, or hearty aged pecorino cheese—will bring out the best in its layered flavour profile. Rich game dishes or roasted lamb with herb crust are also excellent companions, as their savouriness complements the wine’s tannic structure and subtle spice.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving, allowing the bouquet to fully open. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to highlight its aromatic complexity and velvety tannins. With proper cellaring, Ornellaia 2019 will continue to evolve beautifully over the next two decades.