Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Masseto 2011

The growing season of its successor, 2011, is the antithesis of the 2010 vintage: a year that was as early as it was hot, with enough moisture to avoid drought stress - and yet dry and sunny enough for the earliest harvest in the history of Masseto. All the grapes were harvested by 1 September 2011. Concentration, ripeness and yet balance are the hallmarks of the 2011 vintage. Expressive, lush berry fruit, plus plenty of dark chocolate, Mediterranean herbal notes and smoky oak spice. Its aromatic opulence is supported by a strong tannin framework that also provides structure. Harvested without over-ripening, it has also retained its fresh, balanced acidity. James Suckling awarded it the highest score of 100.