Masseto IGT Toscana 2008 3 L Ornellaia

The 2008 Masseto is another huge wine. It boasts tons of energy in a tense, inward style I can only describe as implosive, as if the wine is holding back all of its energy. A deep core of black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather emerges from time to time, but the tannins are still imposing. There is no shortage of pedigree. I fully expect the 2008 to develop into one of the great Massetos. Needless to say, it will be interesting to taste the 2008 in vertical tastings in the future. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.

Opulent and complex, with dark fruits such as plums and blackberries. Milk chocolate. Dried herbs too. Black olives. Stunning nose. Full bodied, with firm and chewy tannins, but a very creamy texture, and lots of milk chocolate, berry and mineral character. It goes on for minutes. Clear and powerful. Savory and salty. One of the best Massetos ever.

Presents an immediately seductive nose of cherry compote, truffle, fruitcake, graphite and spice. A beam of sweet, ripe fruit, along with a core of mineral, is very intense and fresh, supported by a firm structure. Though not quite integrated, everything is in the right proportion. The terrific aftertaste combines power and grace. A stunning Masseto. Merlot.—Non-blind Masseto vertical (October 2017). Best from 2023 through 2045.