The 2009 Ornellaia caresses the palate with layers of seamless, radiant fruit. Sweet red berries, mocha, flowers, new leather and spices are some of the many notes that are layered in this sumptuous, totally beautiful wine. The 2009 stands out for its silky tannins and phenomenal overall balance. This is one of those wines that will probably enjoy a long drinking window. There is little question the ability to blend grape varieties was a huge help in this vintage. In my opinion, that is the main reason Ornellaia is a slightly more complete wine than Masseto in 2009. In one of my blind tastings, the 2009 made a very eloquent case for itself as the wine of the vintage. The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. In 2009 winemaker Axel Heinz used the highest percentage of Cabernet Franc ever in Ornellaia and gave the wine less time in oak, both with the goal of preserving as much freshness as possible.

Quality 967 | Brand 990 | Economics 952 |

buzz brand, investment staple
Quality: Predicted life of 16 years, one of the longest drinking windows in its peer group for the 2009 vintage, which averages 10 years Brand: Strong restaurant presence, featuring on 40 of the world's top wine lists, including Babbo Economics: Above its peer group average price of £55 for the 2009 vintage Production: Lower production than its peer group average of 151,875 bottles

- www.wine-lister.com June 2017