Ornellaia 2012 “L’Incanto”

WINEMAKER’S TASTING NOTES

“The 2012 growing season was characterized by an abundance of sunny, dry weather; some rain did fall as well, but it occurred in just the right periods, before the harvest, and helped the vines to cope with the hot, dry conditions. The result was an even, consistent ripening process that, in the end, yielded generous, full-volumed wines that are remarkably appealing and seductive, with an overall character that we like to define with the word Incanto (‘Enchantment’). Ornellaia 2012 appears a deep ruby, and a remarkably beguiling bouquet boasts rich fruit and spices notes. The palate is well-rounded, full, and generous, with glossy tannins and a complete absence of any roughness. 2012 lacks none of the proverbial concentration that distinguishes Ornellaia’s great vintages, but this vintage adroitly masks that richness behind an expansive, magisterial structure, then concludes with a near-endless finish.” Axel Heinz – May 2014

The Swiss artist John Armleder has been chosen to interpret the character “l’Incanto” (the Enchantment) of the Ornellaia 2012 vintage. As part of the 7th Edition of Ornellaia Vendemmia d’Artista, he will create an Artwork to be installed at the Estate, the labels for the exclusive edition of large format bottles, and a label to present the vintage character in each case of Ornellaia (one bottle in each case of 6x750ml.).

The desire to nurture the Estate’s exceptional qualities has shaped Ornellaia’s philosophy since the beginning. Ornellaia is a cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot and the faithful expression of unique terroir developed in harmony with nature.

Critical Acclaim

James Suckling 97 Points A tight and silky red with compacted fruit and tannin texture featuring blackcurrant, mushroom, and bark undertones. Full-body, firm tannins, and a minerally finish. Excellent structure and mouthfeel. A cooler style of Ornellaia, bringing it back to the classicism of this celebrated region. Bordeaux blend. Better in 2018.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 94 Points The 2012 Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia is very similar to the 2011 Ornellaia that precedes it. These were both hot vintages, but 2012 saw the heat toward the end of the growing season. The harvest in 2012 came two weeks earlier than average. This seamless blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (56%), Merlot (27%), Cabernet Franc (10%), and Petit Verdot (7%) shows some of the roundness and softness of that summer heat. The wine's density and extraction are spot-on, and the bouquet is beautifully shaped by dark cherry nuances with spice, leather, and tobacco at the back. There is a gorgeous sense of richness and plushness here. Some 160,000 bottles were produced. This edition of Ornellaia is more immediate and less suited to the decades-long aging that cooler vintages can successfully affront.

Decanter 94 Points 2012 was an extremely dry yet sound vintage where the awareness of making less extracted and more balanced wines was employed. If the style is overt, with ripe but not jammy bramble fruits, it doesn’t lack a muffled nose of straw, fresh pipe tobacco, and macerated flowers. On the palate, this Ornellaia is full and powerful with big, creamy tannins and a chalky, woody finish, underlined by firm acidity most likely emphasized by the drought.

Wine Spectator 93 Points Features complex aromas of dark fruit and spice right out of the gate, with intense flavors of rich black cherry, blueberry, and spice. The firm yet fine tannins add support as this builds to a long finish and aftertaste. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Better than previously reviewed. Best from 2018 through 2032.

Pickup Only

Wine is available for pickup at our restaurant Pizzaioli located at 3920 Grand Ave., Unit A, Chino, California 91710. Alternatively, enjoy your wine at our restaurant, which pairs nicely with our charcuterie board of fine artisan cheeses and cured meats, or select a wine from our eclectic list. For Menus and Reservations, please visit us at https://www.pizzaioli.com.