Founded in 1981 by Marchese Lodovico Antinori, Ornellaia began as a project to explore the possibilities offered by Bordeaux varieties in the rolling hills of Bolgheri. The estate rose to prominence as the vineyards matured in the 1990s, under the watchful eye of Michel Rolland as consulting oenologist, and was controversially acquired by the Frescobaldi family via Robert Mondavi, to whom Lodovico sold the estate in 2002. The esteem in which the estate is held is such that the appellation of Bolgheri Superiore DOC was created specifically for Ornellaia, and for other wines made in its image.
TASTING NOTES
A blend of 51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. 2018 was characterised with a normality in growing conditions, which helped preserve acidity in the grapes. A warmer than average September enabled the grapes to reach their ideal ripeness. A great vintage that is approachable now, but will age and become one of the finest vintages of the last decade or so, along with 2009.
FOOD PAIRINGExcellent with the dark meat from poultry and game-birds, perfect for a wild boar stew, a quintessentially Tuscan treat.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Each case of Ornellaia contains one bottle with a special label painted by Belgian artist Jan Fabre, with an image of the 'Crown of Kindness' representing this year's theme 'Grace'. 'Grace' is influenced by the gracious conditions that mother nature granted for this vintage.
WHAT ARE THE SHIPPING COSTS?
Orders of any value can be collected for free from either of our retail stores. Greater London next day deliveries will cost £10 for orders below £150 and are free above that.
Delivery costs:
- Order Value below £150 is £10.
- Order Value over £150 is free.
WHAT DOES “NEXT DAY DELIVERY” MEAN?
All our shipments in mainland UK and Greater London are shipped next day. Cut off time for a next day delivery is 12PM. Next day is only available on working days. Shipment can be delayed because of external factors.