Ornellaia 2004

From the moment it fills the glass, Ornellaia 2004 offers a captivating expression of Bolgheri excellence. This vintage stands as a classic representation of the estate’s vision, marrying power, elegance, and refined balance from one of Italy’s premier Bordeaux‑inspired blends.

The wine displays a deep dark ruby tone that borders on purple yet remains clear and alive. On the nose, it unfolds with alluring aromas of dark chocolate, cedar, currants, cola, vanilla, and tobacco, imparting a seamless interplay of richness and aromatic clarity. The palate continues the promise, revealing layered fruit purity, dense yet ultrarefined tannins, and a caressing texture that moves with grace through the long, finessed finish.

The vintage’s growing season was nearly ideal: a winter with ample rainfall followed by a sunny spring and mild summer setting the stage for optimal ripeness. Precise parcels were harvested based on each block’s progression, beginning with Merlot on 2 September, followed by Cabernet Franc and a Cabernet Sauvignon sweep from late September into early October.

Winemaking involved selective hand‑picking, a two‑stage sorting process, fermentation in stainless steel at controlled temperatures between 26–30 °C, and extended maceration for around 18 days. The resulting separate lots were aged in barriques with 70 percent new oak for 18 months. After blending, the wine returned to oak for another six months and then rested in bottle for 12 months before release. Ornellaia 2004 has entered a compelling window of maturity. It remains vibrant and balanced, offering both intensity and elegance in equal measure.

Harvest: Merlot from early September, Cabernet Sauvignon from late September to early October

Grape varieties: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc & 3% Petit Verdot

Alcohol: ~14 % ABV