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Ornellaia vs Brunello di Montalcino

Feb 83 min read

Ornellaia vs Brunello di Montalcino

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

1. History and Origin

Ornellaia:

Produced by Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, Ornellaia is a modern Super Tuscan wine from Bolgheri. Its story began in 1981, when Lodovico Antinori established the estate with the vision of crafting Bordeaux-style blends from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The unique coastal terroir, characterized by its sunny climate and maritime breezes, gave rise to a wine that quickly became a benchmark of Italian excellence.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Brunello di Montalcino hails from the picturesque town of Montalcino in southern Tuscany. Made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso, or “Brunello,” this wine’s modern fame was cemented by the Biondi-Santi family in the late 19th century. Recognized as one of Italy’s first DOCG wines, Brunello is known for its long aging requirements—at least five years before release—and its ability to develop complexity and finesse over decades.

2. Grape Varieties and Composition

Ornellaia:

A Bordeaux-style blend, primarily based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
Brunello di Montalcino:

100% Sangiovese Grosso, reflecting the pure expression of Tuscany’s most renowned grape.

3. Body and Alcohol Content

Ornellaia:

Full-bodied and lush, Ornellaia typically has a higher alcohol content, often ranging from 14% to 14.5%. The blend and careful oak aging result in a plush, velvety texture and rich complexity.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Also full-bodied, but with a firmer, more tannic structure. Alcohol levels are usually around 13.5% to 14%. The extended aging in large oak casks often lends a more elegant, earthy profile.

4. Flavor Profile

Ornellaia:

Dark and opulent, Ornellaia offers flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, with notes of chocolate, tobacco, and spice. It’s a wine of luxurious texture, balance, and smooth tannins.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Bright and structured, Brunello showcases red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, layered with hints of dried herbs, leather, and an earthy minerality. Over time, it develops more nuanced tertiary notes like truffle, tobacco, and forest floor.

5. Aging Potential

Ornellaia:

Typically ready to enjoy upon release, but it can age gracefully for 15–20 years or more, evolving to reveal greater depth and complexity.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Requires significant aging before it reaches its peak. Many Brunellos begin showing their best character after 10–15 years and can continue to evolve for decades.

6. Food Pairing

Ornellaia:

Pairs beautifully with rich, savory dishes like prime rib, braised short ribs, or lamb shanks. The wine’s boldness and plush texture make it an excellent match for luxurious meals.
Brunello di Montalcino:

Best enjoyed with traditional Tuscan fare—wild boar ragù, grilled meats, or aged Pecorino cheese. Its acidity and tannins make it a versatile companion for earthy, robust dishes.

7. Cultural Impact

Ornellaia:

A relatively modern creation that has helped redefine Tuscany’s reputation on the international stage. Its success demonstrates the potential of coastal Bolgheri and serves as a symbol of Italy’s ability to produce wines that rival the best Bordeaux.
Brunello di Montalcino:

A cornerstone of Tuscan winemaking tradition. Brunello’s DOCG status and its long history as a sought-after, collectible wine make it a classic example of Italy’s winemaking heritage.

8. Conclusion

Ornellaia and Brunello di Montalcino are both outstanding examples of Tuscany’s diverse winemaking excellence. Ornellaia represents the innovation of the Super Tuscan movement, combining international varieties with Italian terroir to produce a wine that is luxurious and approachable. Brunello, on the other hand, is steeped in tradition, offering a pure and structured expression of Sangiovese Grosso that reflects the timeless character of Montalcino’s rolling hills. While both wines are full-bodied and age-worthy, their distinct histories, grape compositions, and flavor profiles provide wine lovers with two very different, yet equally remarkable, experiences.