2023 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Bolgheri Bianco Ornellaia

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia belongs to the absolute elite of Italy and is located in Bolgheri on the Tuscan coast. The estate was founded in the 1980s and has developed into one of the most prestigious names in the country. In addition to its iconic red blends, Ornellaia also produces a very limited white wine based on Sauvignon Blanc. Here, everything revolves around precision, selection, and balance, with a clear focus on terroir and detail. Extremely scarce, with only a few cases at most available for the Netherlands per year. You can find more information in the Winery tab.

Origin and terroir

The vineyards are located in Bolgheri, close to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The combination of sea breeze, warm days, and cool nights ensures optimal ripening and preservation of freshness. The growing season featured a mild winter and a wet spring, followed by a warm summer without extreme heat. Rain in August and cool nights in September contributed to extra aromatic complexity and the preservation of acidity. This results in a wine with both power and refinement.

Grapes and vinification

The wine is made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes are harvested by hand in the early morning and immediately cooled to preserve their aromatic quality. After gentle pressing and careful clarification, fermentation follows in various vats, including barriques and tonneaux, with approximately 30% new wood. No malolactic fermentation takes place. The wine then ages for 10 months on the fine lees with periodic bâtonnage, followed by further bottle aging for added complexity.

Color, smell and taste

Light yellow in color with subtle green reflections. The aroma reveals notes of grapefruit, exotic fruit, and peach blossom, complemented by light notes of roasted hazelnut. On the palate, full and round, with beautiful density and structure. The wine combines riper yellow fruit with fresh citrus, white pepper, ginger, and a light spiciness. The acidity provides tension, while a briny and mineral undertone prolongs and refines the finish. The aromatic precision and layering are supported by a clear Sauvignon Blanc expression and a striking length.

Style and character

This Ornellaia Bianco has a slightly softer and rounder style than previous years, with more volume and a Mediterranean character to the fruit. At the same time, the wine remains crisp and energetic, with pronounced freshness and a clear mineral line. The combination of ripeness, tension, and structure results in a wine that is both immediately appealing and continues to develop in the bottle.

Food and wine pairings

Very suitable with refined fish dishes, shellfish, and dishes with citrus or herbs. Also lovely with light poultry dishes or dishes with a subtle creamy sauce. The combination of texture and freshness makes it versatile at the table.

Wine & Food and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.