ORNELLO 2023 AMONG THE 100 BEST WINES IN THE WORLD ACCORDING TO WINE SPECTATOR
The red of Rocca di Frassinello reaches 23° place in the TOP 100 LIST 2025.
Ornello debuts in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 List 2025. The 2023 vintage of Rocca di Frassinello wine conquers the palate of Bruce Sanderson, Senior Editor of the authoritative American magazine, who awarded it a score of 94/100, assigning it 23° position in the eagerly awaited ranking that annually decrees the best wines in the world.
Ornello according to Bruce Sanderson
“Well-marked by toasty oak, yet there are saturated flavors of black cherry, blackberry and plum embedded in this powerful red. Though broad and beefy, this is also polished and complex, with a persistent, fruit-filled aftertaste. Iron and herb accents add detail. Sangioveto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Best from 2026 through 2038”. This is Sanderson‘s assessment, which emphasized that it is a ready-to-drink wine that, at the same time, promises great longevity, given that it can perform at its best for at least another 12 years.
A wine that tells the story of the Maremma
Ornello is a wine that contains all the scents of the Mediterranean scrub in which the Rocca di Frassinello estate is immersed, in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma. Blend of Sangiovese (40%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), Merlot (20%) and Syrah (20%), is a powerful and elegant red at the same time. The percentage of Syrah grapes makes the sip full and rich, while maintaining the freshness typical of the wines of Rocca di Frassinello. Vinified in steel, aged 12 months in new barriques for 50%, and in bottle for 5 months. Born to pay homage to the butteri, depicted on the label, it takes its name from the rornello, the long, pointed stick with which the cowboys symbol of the Maremma still move their cattle today. A red that tells the true essence of this corner of Tuscany.
The 2023 harvest
The 2023 harvest in Maremma Toscana was characterized by a decline in quantities but excellent grape quality. The season saw a promising start, followed by a heat wave in July that put a strain on the vines. Despite this, thanks to careful agricultural practices and timely interventions, Rocca di Frassinello has managed to obtain excellent grapes that have allowed for the production of fresh wines rich in aromas.
Tasting notes Deep shiny ruby red color. On the nose, it gives elegant balsamic notes, with hints of roasted coffee, bitter cocoa and a slight whiff of dark spices. Over time, more complex nuances emerge, reminiscent of Mediterranean aromatic herbs and a delicate hint of ripe red fruit. On the palate it reveals a harmonious and enveloping profile: the undergrowth notes intertwine with calls of blackberry, plum and licorice. The tannin is soft, velvety and well integrated, supported by a balanced freshness that gives momentum and persistence to the sip. The finish is long, tasty, with balsamic and toasted returns.
It pairs particularly effectively with meat dishes, especially structured and succulent recipes such as stewed wild boar, a typical feature of Maremma tradition. Also excellent with artisanal cured meats and medium-aged cheeses, with which it creates a complete and satisfying taste balance.
Tags: Ornello, Rocca di Frassinello, Top 100, Wine Spectator