2001 Masseto

The history of Masseto and the Bolgheri wine region

Masseto is an exclusive wine project that emerged from Tenuta dell'Ornellaia, founded in 1981 in Bolgheri on the Tuscan coast. The founder, Marchese Lodovico Antinori, wanted to make a wine that combined the power of Bordeaux with Italian finesse. Masseto quickly became a wine with an international reputation. Since 2005, the estate has been in the hands of the Frescobaldi family. The terroir of Bolgheri, with its mild maritime climate, gravel and clay soils, is an ideal base for the cultivation of Merlot, the grape variety of Masseto.

Types of wines from Masseto and Ornellaia

Masseto is a single-varietal Merlot and is positioned separately next to the other wines of Ornellaia. Tenuta dell'Ornellaia also produces Ornellaia (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot), Le Serre Nuove and Le Volte. Masseto is however the flagship and is only produced in top years, in limited editions and with its own vinification cellar since 2019.

2001 Masseto: grape varieties, harvest and vinification

The 2001 Masseto is made from 100% Merlot from the vineyard on the Masseto hill. The 2001 year had a warm, dry summer with ideal conditions for a concentrated and healthy harvest. The grapes were harvested by hand and rigorously selected. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation and a maturation of 24 months in new French oak barriques. The wine was then aged in bottle for at least 12 months before being released.

Color, aroma and taste of the 2001 Ornellaia Masseto

The 2001 Masseto shows a deep ruby red color with garnet reflections. In the nose complex aromas of ripe plums, blackcurrants, cocoa, graphite, leather and a subtle spiciness. In the mouth powerful yet refined with velvety tannins, concentrated layers of fruit and an elegant acidity. The wine ends in a long, harmonious aftertaste with notes of dark chocolate and tobacco. This wine has an impressive aging potential and can be drunk now or left to mature.

Would you like to order wines from 2001 Ornellaia Masseto online?

The 2001 Masseto is stored with us in a professionally conditioned Wine Warehouse. If you choose to collect this wine, you will often receive an attractive discount. You will see this directly on the checkout page when you choose 'Collect'. We are located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16, with ample parking. Click here for our address .

Full reviews from international wine critics such as Robert Parker, James Suckling and Vinous are available via the links next to the image. We offer this service free of charge to our customers.

Need advice on choosing the right wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier . Free of charge for Grandcruwijnen customers.

Wine and food pairings with 2001 Ornellaia Masseto

Beef tenderloin with red wine sauce: The fine structure of the meat harmonises with the soft tannins and rich fruit aromas of the wine.
Roast rack of veal with sage and butter jus: The delicate flavour of veal goes perfectly with the balance of power and elegance in the Masseto.
Risotto with porcini mushrooms and truffle oil: The earthy and creamy components accentuate the complexity of the wine.
Grilled Mushrooms with Polenta: Umami-rich flavors combine seamlessly with the depth and structure of this 100% Merlot.
Ravioli filled with game and sage butter sauce: A powerful and aromatic combination that perfectly complements the character of the Masseto.
Grilled langoustines with saffron aioli: The saltiness and aroma of the shellfish provide an exciting contrast with the spicy and ripe notes of the wine.