($30, Vintus):  Ornellaia is one of Italy’s iconic and greatest wines.  They produce a second wine, Le Serre Nuove dell’Ornellaia, that is made from young vines or from grapes that just don’t make the cut to be used for Ornellaia itself.  While some refer to Le Volte dell’Ornellaia as Ornellaia’s “third wine,” it differs because the vast majority, if not all, of the grapes come from outside of the Ornellaia estate and it, at least in the past, contained Sangiovese.  That said, the 2022, a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant (51%) blend, with Merlot and Petit Verdot filling in the remainder, shows the talents of the winemaking team.  Regardless of the blend, Le Volte remains a great buy.  The succulent mid-weight 2022 Le Volte marries juicy, cherry-like notes with savory, earthy elements.  Its polished texture makes this bright Tuscan beauty easy to enjoy now.
93 Michael Apstein Sep 3, 2024