Ornellaia Bianco 2020 (OWC 3)

Description

By Jane Anson in 2023 (JA97)

An expert rendition of soft power, this has depths to the expression of Sauvignon Blanc that you find in very few versions of this grape variety. Rippling with lemongrass, tomato leaf, sage, citrus, some riper fleshy fruits of apricot, nectarine and pineapple than in the 2019 vintage, clearly an impressive glass that has tension and grip. Winemaker Olga Fusari, director Axel Heinz.

By Jeb Dunnuck in 2023 (JD95)

A similar bright yellow/silver, the 2020 Ornellaia Bianco is entirely Sauvignon Blanc raised in barrels and offers a sunny and delicately rounded bouquet, with polished notes of candied grapefruit, salted pineapple, peach rings, and custard. Medium to full-bodied, it has a silky sheen to its texture and harmonious balance, with its delicate perfume lasting long on the finish. This is another exceptional white that I hope is not ignored by lovers of this estate. Truly one of the great Tuscan whites, this luxurious and detailed wine has a lot of elegance and serious aging potential.

By Wine Advocate in 2023 (WA94)

This wine that once featured Viognier in the blend, is now 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 Ornellaia Bianco is quite tropical and generous in personality with immediate aromas of papaya, Golden Delicious apple and crushed stone. The wine is beautifully textured and long lasting. I asked if Vermentino might ever feature in this blend (to bring in a Tuscan grape), but the answer is no for now. Vermentino already plays a role in the estate’s very popular entry-level Poggio alle Gazze dell’Ornellaia. Viognier is being cut because the grape is difficult, and if you don’t hit the harvest date just right, it can appear flabby and waxy.