Le Volte, Toscana IGT, Tenuta dell’Ornellaia 2005

Appearance: medium red-purple, slight orange rim. Nose: bright red cherry fruit, possible unoaked (on first nose). Certainly no evidence of new oak treatment. Palate: nice acidity here, soft red fruits, low-medium silky tannins. Nice length. Conclusion: this wine is a blend of Sangiovese 50%, Merlot 30% and Cabernet Sauvignon 20%, vinified separately with the blended wine then being aged in 2-4 year old barrels for some 10 months. In other words, not much oak flavour is imparted, if any, as desired. I expected a bit more structure to come through from the Cabernet Sauvignon, but it’s clearly well-made. Drink now or over the next couple of years. more March 4, 2008