Deep bright ruby with purple highlights. Extravagantly rich, multidimensional aromas of raspberry, ripe black plum and violet are complicated by black truffle, espresso, milk chocolate and mineral, with high-quality vanillin oak remaining in the background. Wonderfully silky on the palate but with immense power, this is real iron-fist-in-a-velvet-glove. The imposingly rich fruit avoids coming across as overripe, and the notes of leather, tobacco, tamarind and mocha linger on the palate for minutes. A compellingly suave and smooth wine whose extremely fine-grained tannins and hint of slightly sharp acidity bring the wine's rich, complex flavors into full focus. This is probably the best pair of wines made at Ornellaia since 2001-a distinct step ahead of the 2003s and 2002s made here-and must purchases for collectors with deep pockets.

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The stunning 2004 Masseto (100% Merlot) presents layers of sweet jammy dark fruit and mineral notes that burst forth from the glass with notable length, purity and delineation. It is a decidedly elegant and super-refined Masseto that continues to integrate its 100% new oak well, showing extraordinary class and fine, silky-textured tannins that caress the palate on the long finish. The 2004 will be hard to resist in its youth as it is incredibly delicious even now, yet it promises to develop gracefully to at least age 20. It is a phenomenal effort that is not to be missed.

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Shows wonderful aromas of flowers and berries, with hints of vanilla and Indian spices. Full-bodied and powerful, with layers of chewy tannins and a long, flawless finish. Compact and dense, yet racy and refined. Not the perfect 2001, but very close. 2,680 cases made.

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