Since its inception, Ornellaia’s production has been influenced and inspired by the Mediterranean character of the coast near Bolgheri. Founded in 1981, Ornellaia has helped establishing this relatively young viticultural area and it is now regarded as one of the world’s most iconic estates.
Nestled in the foothills near Bolgheri, Ornellaia lies just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean coast. During the summer months, the cool sea breeze caresses the vineyards and nearby olive groves, while during the winter the hills provide protection from the cold north winds. Ornellaia believes that a wine should be the most authentic expression of the terroir from which it originates. The 115ha of vineyards benefit from a unique combination of maritime climate and a complex mosaic of marine, alluvial and volcanic soils – creating a distinct environment where red and white varieties can best express themselves.
The clusters were hand-picked into small 15 kg boxes in the early morning hours and immediately chilled on arrival at the cellar to fully preserve their aromatic compounds. After a meticulous selection, the whole clusters were given a very slow, gradual pressing, while great care was exercised to prevent oxidation of the fruit. After static decantation for 12 hours, the different lots of must were put into barriques (25% new and 25% used), in steel tanks and in concrete vats. Fermentation temperatures did not exceed 22°C, and the wine did not go through malolactic fermentation. The wine matured on the fine lees for 6 months, with regular bâtonnage throughout the period, followed by the assemblage of the final blend. After a light fining, it rested an additional 12 months in the bottle before release.
The 2022 vintage in Bolgheri was distinguished by a typical winter with temperatures nearing the seasonal average, followed by a start of spring that was equally cool and dry. These conditions caused the vines to bud later than usual. From May onwards, a lengthy dry spell – lasting for about 75 days – persisted in the area, seriously
challenging plant growth. The vines suffered from notable water stress during the growth, flowering and veraison periods, which resulted in a low-yield vintage.
Fortunately, after these complications, the rainfall caused by classic summer storms freed up the energies, reactivating the physiology of the vines that could resume the ripening of the grapes. The rainfall cleared up during a month of September that proved perfect for the accumulation of sugar, aromas and tannins, mostly due to the cool night-time temperatures.
The harvest took place in superb conditions that enabled us to choose the perfect date for each vineyard and varietal. The white grape harvest started with Sauvignon Blanc on 9 August.
Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia 2022 displays an intense straw yellow colour. The early harvesting allows all the citrus and exotic fruit flavours to shine through ensued by minty notes. The aromatic freshness is confirmed on the palate with exceptional balance between length and acidity.
“Bright, lifted, sculpted, this is ready to drink, no need to wait, juicy white peach and pear, grilled spices, tapers off slowly but surely, drawing out through the palate.”
93 Points – Jane Anson
“Made mostly with 53% Sauvignon Blanc, 37% Vermentino, 6% Viognier, 2% Verdicchio and 2% Semillon, the 2022 Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia is fragrant and fresh with aromas of lemongrass, sweet sage, honey and green apple that hover high in the glass. Pretty mineral notes of flint and crushed stone round it off. This is a tart, easy-drinking white wine that would pair with the delicious fresh seafood catch of the day found along the Tuscan coast. The wine is partially aged in new and neutral oak and cement.”
91 Points – Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
53% Sauvignon Blanc
37% Vermentino
6% Viognier
2% Verdicchio
2% Semillon
Natural Cork
13%
