Deep ruby. The initially reticent nose begins with a hint of grass before revealing wonderfully complex notes of raspberry, red and black cherry, leather, tobacco and intriguing minerality. Much more explosive on the palate from the get-go, with deep, ripe red and black fruit flavors given extra lift and complexity by pretty coffee and dark chocolate highlights. The very long, nuanced finish features smooth tannins. A very successful Ornellaia.

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This strong series of 2004s continues with the gorgeous 2004 Ornellaia. A lively dark ruby, it is a vibrant effort bursting with expressive aromatics and layered, well-delineated fruit, showing much purity on the palate and closing with a long, finessed finish. Readers hoping to catch this wine's full array of nuances will have to wait at least another few years as the wine remains quite primary today. This exquisite effort is not to be missed. A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot.

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Dark ruby-purple in color, with complex aromas of dark chocolate, cola, vanilla, cedar and currant. Full-bodied yet ultrarefined, with dense, seamless, caressing tannins. Everything is in the right proportion. Superb. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 11,710 cases made.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio