Tenuta dell'Ornellaia was founded in 1981 by Marchese Lodovico Antinori, a member of the prestigious Antinori family, known for their long history in winemaking. Lodovico's vision was to create a wine that could rival his cousin Nicolò Incisa's Sassicaia, the original Super Tuscan. The estate was later acquired by the Frescobaldi family in 2005, who have continued to uphold the tradition of excellence and innovation. Located in the picturesque Bolgheri region on the Tuscan Coast, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. This area, part of the Northern Maremma between Livorno and the island of Elba, is known for its stunning Mediterranean charm and unique terroir1. The vineyards extend over two adjacent areas separated by Bolgheri's famed Cypress Avenue.
Ornellaia, the estate's flagship wine, was first produced in 1985. It is a Bordeaux-style blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The wine quickly gained a reputation for its rich, elegant, and complex flavors, becoming one of Italy's most famous and expensive wines. In 1986, Tenuta dell'Ornellaia introduced Masseto, a 100% Merlot wine that has also become an icon. Masseto is known for its velvety texture and the Italian equivelant of Petrus, a wine that should be included in the same conversations as the great Bordeaux Right Bank Merlots.
The exceptional Super Tuscan wines from Tenuta dell'Ornellaia are among the most sought-after wines in Italy. We are thrilled to announce that The World of Wine will have an allocation available through the global Place de Bordeaux releases, which take place every March. We encourage you to contact your personal wine broker to register your interest.
