B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
“Antonio Moretti’s Orma seems to keep getting better with each passing vintage”
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
From a small plot of nearly hidden vines nestled between Sassicaia and Ornellaia, the opulent and enticing 96 pt. 2021 Orma boasts fresh and fragrant dense fruit masterfully interwoven with lush tannins and finishing with vibrant acidity, a Super Tuscan offering the hallmark depth and complexity of it higher profile neighbors at a fraction of the price.
Situated along the stunning Maremma coastline with glimpses of the Tyrrhenian Sea’s crystal teal-blue waters, the nearly sea level drive along the pine tree-lined Via Bolgherese in the Bolgheri DOC feels a world apart from the undulating roads leading to Orma’s sister estate Tenuta Sette Ponti in the Tuscan hills, renowned for producing the highly rated Bordeaux-style blend Oreno. Purchasing a small plot of land just below the towering Bolgheri Amphitheater, entrepreneur and pioneering founder Antonio Moretti established Orma in 2004, engaging a group of highly skilled enologists and viticulturists that include celebrated winemaker Beppe Caviola to produce the Orma blend. Located through a pair of massive, unmarked gates, the organically farmed 7.5 hectare Orma vineyard is planted to Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in well-drained soils of mostly sand and pebbles with smaller amounts of clay, its 360 degree southwest exposure to the sun encouraging optimal ripening while constant sea breezes prevent rot. Boasting distinctive aromas of balsamic and wild sage brush reflecting its Bolgheri terroir, the muscular and polished 2021 Orma was aged in small French oak barrels for 18 months and then 12 months in bottle, yielding a fresh fruited, balanced blend with a soft velvety texture and a generous, lengthy finish, summed up as “seriously compelling” by Antonio Galloni of Vinous and promising a decade or more of enjoyment.
Described as a “challenger to Sassicaia and Ornellaia” by James Suckling over a decade ago, the elegant 96 pt. 2021 Orma remains relatively under the radar compared to its neighbors, good news for lovers and collectors of luscious, powerful Super Tuscan blends seeking an outstanding value who can look forward to years of pleasurable drinking ahead. |