Book a Call
Book a Call

1981

Founded

99

Hectares

2

Generations

Legendary Status

Recognised as one of the original Super Tuscans, Ornellaia stands among the most prestigious wines in the world. Its consistency, elegance, and collectible nature make it a true benchmark for fine wine investment.

Heritage

Founded in 1981 by Lodovico Antinori, Tenuta dell’Ornellaia redefined Tuscan winemaking with its bold embrace of international grape varieties. Now under the Frescobaldi family, the estate continues a legacy of innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless Italian elegance.

Terrior

Nestled in the coastal hills of Bolgheri, Ornellaia’s vineyards benefit from a perfect balance of Mediterranean sunshine, sea breezes, and mineral-rich soils. This unique terroir produces wines of remarkable depth, balance, and longevity.

Map
Summary

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia was founded by Lodovico Antinori in 1981, when he inherited a swath of coastal land in Tuscany and envisioned a wine estate distinct from the traditional Sangiovese model. He launched the first vintage of Ornellaia in 1985, embracing international grape varieties over indigenous ones in a bold “Super-Tuscan” style.

Ownership & Leadership

Originally wholly owned by Antinori, Tenuta dell’Ornellaia underwent a shift in partnership with Robert Mondavi, who became a minority shareholder before assuming full control. In 2005, Frescobaldi acquired the estate outright and continues to steward it, with Giovanni Geddes serving as president.

Vineyard Holdings & Production

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia encompasses vineyard plots particularly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, planted on carefully selected sites in the Tuscan coast’s microclimate. Its flagship wine, Ornellaia, yields about 12,000 cases annually.

Style, Classification & Status

While Italian wineries don’t possess “First Growth” classifications like Bordeaux, Ornellaia has achieved iconic status within the Super-Tuscan movement and is regularly ranked among Italy’s most prestigious wines. Its reputation rests on consistency, global demand, and its role in redefining luxury wine from Tuscany.