Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri DOC Rosso - 1st Jul 2016

2012 was a dry growing year, like 2011, with the scarcity of water already evident during a cold, dry winter. July and August were hot and almost rain-free, leading to fears of arrested ripening due to lack of water. However, veraison was completely normal and satisfactory. A few spells of rain in late August and early September increased the momentum of the ripening, and the fruit achieved fine overall ripeness, with optimal levels of aromatics and polyphenols. The harvest for Merlot took place between 29 August and 17 September; it began on 18 September for Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot in the younger vineyards, and concluded with Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the oldest vineyards.
Tasting notes A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot, Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri DOC Rosso combines generosity and depth of flavour with an engaging and vibrant personality. The 2012 vintage was sunny and dry, yielding grapes that were concentrated and fully ripe. Rainfall during the harvest period, coming after a particularly dry season, actually benefitted the vines; it also lowered temperatures during September, which encouraged full ripening of the fruit. Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia 2012 is as expected ; a deep ruby red. A very crisp, clean-edged bouquet features emphatic notes of wild berry fruit and sweet violets, with underlying hints of pungent spice and roast espresso bean. The palate is full-volumed with a good weight, yet at the same time displaying elegance and pedigree, with a velvet-smooth, glossy texture and up-front fruit. A lovely vein of acidity propels a near-endless finish, held taut and true by an exceptional charge of tannins, bringing the wine to a close on an intensely refreshing note.
Have a few friends over this weekend, whip up a sumptuous meal and try a new wine!
Available for purchase online now.