Viniou Reviews
Tenuta Sette Ponti’s Oreno 2018 is a distinctive Tuscan red blend, showcasing the estate's commitment to crafting refined wines of international stature. Oreno is composed predominantly of Merlot, ably supported by Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, uniting native and Bordeaux grape varieties into a harmonious cuvée. The 2018 vintage benefitted from warm yet balanced weather conditions, allowing full phenolic ripeness and lush fruit expression. The precision in vinification—careful selection of grapes, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and maturation in French oak barriques—lends the wine impressive depth, complexity, and age-worthiness. In the glass, Oreno 2018 reveals a deep garnet colour, with fragrant notes of blackberries, ripe cherries, hints of spices, tobacco and dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied, velvety, structured by ripe tannins and a lingering, elegant finish.
Tuscany’s rolling hills are famed not just for their picturesque beauty, but also for producing some of Italy’s most revered wines. The region benefits from a temperate Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny days and cool nights that allow the grapes to ripen gradually while retaining fresh acidity. Soils vary from clay-limestone in some areas to gravel and galestro (friable marl), lending complexity and structure to the wines. Historically, Tuscany is the homeland of Sangiovese, but estates like Tenuta Sette Ponti have pioneered international blends that stand shoulder to shoulder with Italy’s greats.
With its structure and opulence, Oreno 2018 pairs beautifully with robust meat dishes. Classic Tuscan fare such as bistecca alla fiorentina (chargrilled steak), wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or roasted lamb with rosemary would make a perfect match, enhancing both the wine and the food. Rich aged cheeses, such as Pecorino Toscano, are also excellent companions.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least an hour before tasting, to allow it to reveal its aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C to appreciate its full spectrum of flavours and ensure a silky mouthfeel. Oreno 2018 is superb now but promises further rewards with a few more years in the cellar.
