In The World of Wine’s newest print, Jim Clarke reflects on Bolgheri’s history in the spirit of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the coastal DOC. In the not-so-distant past, the word Bolgheri carried little meaning: wines from producers such as Ornellaia, Le Macchiole, and Masseto, were known Super-Tuscans first and perhaps even Bordeaux-style blends second. 2019 marked 75 years since the first Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes were planted in the region and 25 years since Super-Tuscans were formally welcomed into the Bolgheri DOC. Clarke writes that these anniversaries represent monumental milestones for the international legitimacy of the Bolgheri DOC. The article contains insights from Axel Heinzs, estate director of Ornellaia and Masseto, that attest to the progression of the red wines from this region.
In a concluding note, Heinzs notes that he feels “the style and quality of Bolgheri’s reds is now sufficiently well established for it to be time to see what we can do with the white front. Whites make up only 8.5 percent of the region’s production…” The new releases out of Bolgheri are showing unprecedented character and expression of the terrior’s signature Mediterranean savory, wild-herb character that serves to distinguish them from wines made from the same varieties grown elsewhere.
To read more about the legendary Bolgheri estates of Ornellaia, Le Macchiole, and Masseto, read the full article below.
Bolgheri at 25
Related Producers
Ornellaia
Bolgheri, Italy
Ornellaia has established itself as one of the most iconic producers in Italy (and beyond). The estate is dedicated to producing charming and opulent wines, full of Mediterranean character and finesse, reflecting the estate's unique terroir in Bolgheri on the Tuscan coast.
Masseto
Bolgheri, Italy
Masseto is one of the world's iconic wines. Coveted by international collectors and fine wine connoisseurs across the globe, Masseto constantly receives the highest accolades from the most prestigious wine critics in the world, and is a fixture in the international fine wine trade indexes.
Le Macchiole
Bolgheri, Italy
Le Macchiole can best be defined as the “Boutique Bolgheri.” The winery is known for its spectacular single-varietal wines, and their signature grape varieties are Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc and work is always conducted with the priority being "the expression of the land." The winery continues to evolve in both the vineyards and in the cellar to allow the soil characteristics from this estate property to be the defining identity in the wines.