Ornellaia

The estate’s eponymous flagship, Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore, is a Bolgheri DOC Superiore red built around Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot as supporting varieties.

This bottling matures for 18 months in predominantly new French oak followed by 12 months in bottle, building layers of ripe dark fruit, spice, and polished tannins.

Rooted on Tuscany’s coast, it reflects Mediterranean warmth balanced by refined, Old World structure.

The DOC Superiore designation signals strict production standards and extended maturation before release.

By blending international varieties with local heritage, the wine presents a clear expression of Bolgheri’s terroir and the region’s modern red-wine tradition.

Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore's popularity stems from its harmony of quality, history, and exclusivity.

• Consistent acclaim — regularly achieves high scores from top wine critics, enhancing its reputation.
• Limited production — small batches increase desire and collectibility among enthusiasts.
• Artistic collaborations — annual “Vendemmia d’Artista” events pair each vintage with special labels, appealing to art and wine lovers alike.

• What is Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore?
  Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore is a 'Super Tuscan' red wine made in the Bolgheri DOC. It blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.
• What makes Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore special?
  It is noted for its Bordeaux-inspired style, DOC Superiore designation with strict production standards, and its clear expression of Bolgheri’s terroir.
• How is Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore aged?
  It is aged for 18 months in mostly new French oak barrels, followed by 12 months in bottle before release.
• Who founded Ornellaia, when was the first release, and who owns it today?
  Founded in 1981 by Lodovico Antinori, with the first release in 1985. Today, the estate is owned by the Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi family.
• Where is Ornellaia located?
  In the Bolgheri DOC of Tuscany on Italy’s Mediterranean coast, an area known for warm, maritime influences and modern red-wine tradition.
• How large is the estate?
  The Ornellaia vineyards span about 115 hectares.
• What other wines does Ornellaia produce besides the flagship?
  Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia (the second wine, often from younger vines or lots not selected for the flagship), Le Volte dell’Ornellaia (an approachable red), and Ornellaia Bianco (a limited-production white made primarily from Sauvignon Blanc).
• Has Ornellaia earned notable awards and critical acclaim?
  Yes. The 1998 Ornellaia was named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year in 2001, and the winery consistently garners high scores from leading critics.