Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Le Volte dell'Ornellaia

Unveiling Le Volte dell'Ornellaia: A Journey Through an Italian Masterpiece

Le Volte dell'Ornellaia, the third wine from the prestigious Tenuta dell'Ornellaia estate in Bolgheri, Tuscany, is more than just an "everyday" drinking experience. It's a gateway into the world of this iconic producer, showcasing their dedication to quality and meticulous winemaking practices.

A Feast for the Senses: Exploring the Depths of Le Volte dell'Ornellaia

Visual Delights: Pour yourself a glass of Le Volte dell'Ornellaia and be captivated by its vibrant ruby red colour. Hints of purple shimmer at the edges, hinting at the depth of flavour to come.

Aromatic Intrigue: Swirl the glass gently and let the captivating bouquet unfold. Fresh, lively aromas of red fruits take centre stage – think juicy cherries, raspberries, and a touch of redcurrant. These mingle harmoniously with subtle hints of spice, adding a touch of complexity.

The Palate Beckons: Take a sip and prepare to be impressed. The wine explodes with a burst of juicy red fruit flavours that mirror the aromas. It's medium-bodied, with a delightful balance between smooth, velvety tannins and a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness, keeping the finish lively and mouthwatering.

Beyond the First Impression: As you delve deeper, the wine's complexity starts to emerge. Earthy notes and hints of tobacco add subtle layers, while the influence of oak ageing from previously used barrels peeks through with a touch of vanilla and spice. The finish is persistent, leaving a lingering sensation of ripe fruit and a touch of elegance.

Unveiling the Craft: A Blend of Excellence

Le Volte dell'Ornellaia is a meticulously crafted blend, typically consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a touch of Petit Verdot. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring the best possible expression of the fruit. Following fermentation, the wine spends around 10 months ageing, partly in oak barrels previously used for the estate's flagship Ornellaia wine, and partly in concrete tanks. This unique ageing process allows the wine to develop richness and structure from the oak while retaining the vibrancy and freshness of the fruit thanks to the time spent in concrete.

Food Pairings: Bringing Out the Best in Le Volte dell'Ornellaia

Le Volte dell'Ornellaia's versatility makes it a fantastic food pairing wine. Here are some suggested culinary companions:

• Pasta Perfection: Pair it with tomato-based pasta dishes with rich meat sauces or hearty mushroom ragùs. The acidity in the wine will cut through the richness of the sauce, while the fruit flavours complement the savoury elements.
• Pizza Night Elevated: Elevate your next pizza night by choosing a pizza with bold toppings like sausage, pepperoni, or roasted vegetables. The wine's robust character can stand up to the intensity of the flavours.
• Grilled Delights: Grilled meats like lamb chops, ribeye steak, or chicken skewers are excellent partners for Le Volte dell'Ornellaia. The smoky notes from the grill will find harmony with the wine's subtle oak influence, while the juicy fruit flavours will complement the savouriness of the meat.
• Vegetarian Options: Don't be afraid to explore vegetarian options! Le Volte's versatility extends to bolder vegetarian dishes like portobello mushroom burgers or lentil stews. The wine's acidity will help balance the earthiness of the lentils or mushrooms.

Serving Temperature: The Key to Perfection

To fully appreciate the complexities of Le Volte dell'Ornellaia, ensure it's served at the optimal temperature. Aim for around 16-18°C (60-64°F). This temperature range allows the fruit flavours to shine through while keeping the tannins supple and the acidity refreshing.

A Timeless Classic: The Legacy of Le Volte dell'Ornellaia

Le Volte dell'Ornellaia is more than just a third wine; it's a testament to Tenuta dell'Ornellaia's commitment to quality. It offers a glimpse into the world-class winemaking practices employed by the estate, making it an exceptional value proposition for wine enthusiasts. So, uncork a bottle, savour the vibrant flavours, and embark on a delightful journey through the heart of Tuscany.