Ornellaia Bianco featured image
Ornellaia Bianco 2023
Vintage
2023
Region
Bolgheri, Tuscany
Country
Italy
Style
Still
Grape Varieties
Sauvignon Blanc
ABV
13%
Dietary
Vegan, Vegetarian
Sustainability
Sustainable Certification
Ornellaia
Ornellaia is one of Bolgheri’s most important fine wine estates, established in 1981 on the Tuscan coast in Italy. Known for Ornellaia wine, Le Serre Nuove, Le Volte, Poggio alle Gazze and Ornellaia Bianco, the estate produces still red and white wines from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and selected white varieties. Ornellaia represents one of Italy’s most recognised premium wine names.
Read MoreViticulture
The Ornellaia estate lies in the foothills facing the Mediterranean coast near Bolgheri. Its hillside vineyards benefit from maritime breezes during summer, encouraging slow grape ripening and freshness, while the hills protect the vines from cold northern winds in winter. The soils, of marine and alluvial origin, form a varied mosaic of more than 70 plots, classified by soil type, exposure and variety. Average vine age is around 20 years for red varieties and 13 years for whites, with vineyard work carried out largely by hand.
Vinification
The grapes were hand-harvested in 15kg crates in the early morning and immediately cooled on arrival at the cellar. After selection, whole clusters were slowly and gently pressed with careful protection from oxidation. Following around 24 hours of static decantation, the must was fermented entirely in barrels, 30% new and 70% used, at temperatures not exceeding 20?C. Barriques, 320- and 600-litre tonneaux and cigar-shaped barrels were used. No malolactic fermentation took place. The wine aged for 10 months on lees with b?tonnage, followed by 20 months in bottle.
2023
The 2023 vintage in Bolgheri was challenging yet well balanced. A mild winter with relatively high temperatures and average rainfall encouraged early vine growth. Spring brought abundant rain, replenishing water reserves but requiring meticulous vineyard work. Summer was hot, though without extreme temperatures, and rainfall helped reduce water stress, allowing the grapes to ripen steadily and reach high concentration. Late-August rain and cool September nights supported aromatic complexity and preserved acidity, giving a balance between power and elegance.
Tasting Note
Ornellaia Bianco 2023 is bright light yellow in colour, with delicate green nuances. The nose is complex, showing exotic fruit, grapefruit peel and peach flower, supported by subtle roasted hazelnut notes. The palate is generous and rounded, with density balanced by a refreshing, savoury backbone. Mineral tension brings precision and length, leading to an enduring finish with freshness, depth and elegant Bolgheri coastal character.
Food Pairing
Pair with lobster, grilled turbot, scallops, crab, asparagus, white truffle, roast chicken, herb risotto, Comte, or fine seafood tasting menus.
Bottle Shots - Ornellaia Bianco 2023
