The estate. Tenuta dell'Ornellaia was founded in 1981 by Lodovico Antinori in Bolgheri, on the Tuscan coast, and released its first vintage in 1985. Since 2005 it has been wholly owned by the Frescobaldi family. Le Serre Nuove is the estate's second wine, made mostly from younger vines and with more Merlot than the grand vin, Ornellaia.
Region. Bolgheri DOC Rosso, Castagneto Carducci.
Grapes and style. 44% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot. Hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel and concrete, then around 15 months in barrique (25% new) and six months in bottle before release. 14.5% alc.
The 2023 vintage. A mild winter and a wet spring, then a warm summer with timely rain. Late-August rain and cool September nights built aromatic complexity and kept the acidity fresh.
What to expect. Deep ruby with a purple rim. Forest fruits and cherry with a little spice, polished tannins and good freshness. Drinking well now and will keep developing for several years.
Serving. 16–18°C. Decant for about half an hour. Roast chicken, rack of lamb, mushroom dishes.