THE 2003 GROWING SEASON
50% Sangiovese
35% Merlot
15% Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2003 vintage was characterised by hot temperatures, higher than average, and little rainfall (only 14 mm from the end of March to the beginning of September).However, the above average rainfall that occurred in 2002, had well prepared the soils so that they had a good water reserve throughout the entire growing season of 2003. The hot summer of 2003 has conferred to the wine charachteristics of ripeness and good structure, typical of the best terroirs located along the Tuscan coastline.
VINIFICATION AND AGEING
Each grape variety was vinified separately in small stainless tanks so that fermentation management (extraction and temperature) respected the different characteristics of each variety. Malolactic fermentation was carried out in stainless steel after the alcoholic fermentation. The wine was then matured for 10 months in 2 – 4 year old barriques, which had previously been used for Masseto and Ornellaia ageing.
WINEMAKER’S TASTING NOTES
“Produced following closely the Tenuta dell’Ornellaia’s philosophy, Le Volte is the result of the research and selection of the best Mediterranean terroirs in Tuscany. Elegant and enjoyable, the 2003 vintage is characterised by ripe berry fruit aromatics and flavours, a generous, round mouthfeel and an attractive long finish.”
Axel Heinz
RATINGS
Wine Spectator 86
