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Masseto 2008

Tenuta dell'Ornellaia

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Tasting Notes

The 2008 Masseto is another huge wine. It boasts tons of energy in a tense, inward style I can only describe as implosive, as if the wine is holding back all of its energy. A deep core of black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather emerges from time to time, but the tannins are still imposing. There is no shortage of pedigree. I fully expect the 2008 to develop into one of the great Massetos. Needless to say, it will be interesting to taste the 2008 in vertical tastings in the future. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.

Score: 97

Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2018-2033 01 June 2012

The 2008 Masseto comes across as relatively reserved and along the lines of vintages like 1988 that age beautifully but aren’t the blockbuster type wines usually associated with Maremma. Freshly cut flowers, crushed rocks, spices and black cherries are some of the aromas and flavors that emerge from the 2008. This is an exceptionally beautiful Masseto that impresses for its elegance. The wine fleshes out nicely in the glass, while retaining its refined personality.

Score: 96

Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2016-2028 31 August 2011

A dark, extracted red, offering plenty of juicy plum, blackberry and violet notes framed by vanilla and toast. Squarely in the modern camp, yet this works. The tannins are slightly gritty now, but should mesh with time. Merlot. Best from 2014 through 2024.

Score: 93

Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2014-2024 15 October 2011

Opulent and complex, with dark fruits such as plums and blackberries. Milk chocolate. Dried herbs too. Black olives. Stunning nose. Full bodied, with firm and chewy tannins, but a very creamy texture, and lots of milk chocolate, berry and mineral character. It goes on for minutes. Clear and powerful. Savory and salty. One of the best Massetos ever. The 2008 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Toscana Masseto (99 points) finishes off my ultimate case of current released wines I tasted this year. The pure Merlot shows layers of fabulous fruit and polished tannins. In some vintages, such as 2008, it is the greatest Merlot on earth.

Score: 99

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 04 August 2011