The Glorious History of Masseto Wine – A Timeless Taste

Masseto is the most alluring Merlots in the world. André Tchelistcheff first recognized the Masseto plot’s unique terroir. In Italy, the word ‘masso’ represents rock. André identified Masseto hill as the best suitable place for growing Merlot. The layers of the hill were clothed with hard-rock clay, and their outer appearance looked like solid boulders. Hence, this particular plot was named Masseto.

The extraordinary vineyard wine Masseto was located in Tuscany. It gave birth to some famous wineries found in Burgundy and Bordeaux. Before the winery concept came, wines were manufactured only in the Bolgheri’s basement, which was the Florentine family Frescobaldi’s home.  

Masseto Wines: History and Evolution

In 1981 during the production of Masseto, winemakers faced severe challenges because of the wine manufacture regulations and grape varieties. By taking a risk in this turmoil, Lodovico Antinori created Ornalleia, and the Masseto wines came into being. This wine quickly gained popularity among the citizens of Italy. Masseto was overshadowed by Ornalleia a few times, but later, in 1986, it released its vintage wine for the first time, which put it on the center of the map.

Masseto’s founder, Lodovico, sold a few Ornellaia shares to Mondavi winery. Later, the winery of Robert Mondavi took away its remaining stakes from Lodovico and sold a half portion of these shares to the family of Frescobaldi. In 2005, Mondavi faced a tragic fall as Frescobaldi, unfortunately, gained full authorial power after buying the shares that were left. From that time until now, Frescobaldi has been reigning Ornellaia Masseto and giving it an individual identity. Some best vintages and the Masseto wine price can be found at https://puninwine.com/catalog/wine/filter/brand-masseto. Here are some of the listings:

• IGT 1998 (€1,345; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 75 cl)
• IGT 2010 (€1,500; country – Tuscan, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 75 cl)
• IGT 2011 Magnum (€2,750; country – Toscana, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 1500 cl)
• IGT 2012 (€1,150; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 75 cl)
• IGT 2012 Magnum (€2,950; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 150 cl)
• IGT 2013 (€1,220; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red, Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 75 cl)
• IGT 2013 Magnum (€3,150; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 14.5 %; volume – 75 cl )
• 2017 (€1,100; country – Tuscany, Italy; Type – Red; Sugar – Dry; Stronghold – 15.5 %; volume – 75 cl)

Organic Methods, Aging Potential of Masseto’s Wines and the Awards it Wins

The varieties of grapes used in Masseto’s wines are organic. The company follows the sustainable practice of organic farming to grow high-quality wines. These organic farming methods help keep the grapes tasting better and healthier. There is also a unique process of aging for which it can produce delicious wines worldwide. This lengthy aging process has contributed to the tag of high-price of wine. The wine cellar of the company is placed in a cave to maintain the consistency of the humidity level and temperature. This environment is perfectly suitable for the aging of the wine.

Masseto has won several awards. It includes the ‘Best Italian Red Wines’ award, which Gambero Rosso gave. The 2017 vintage wine is a significant successor to its two best vintages of 2016 and 2015. The world’s eminent wine critics have awarded huge scores to the 2017 vintage wine, which includes 97 award points. James Suckling, a renowned critic of wine, has given it 98 points. In August 2021, a report was published by Liv-ex on the most traded Italian wines of the year. According to this report, the vintages of 2011, 2015, and 2017 have the third position of most active wines. In today’s world, Masseto is located at the top among the other famous power brands like Leflaive, Penfolds, Dom Perignon, Sassicaia, and Leroy.

Foods that Taste Better with Masseto’s Wines

Italy is a wine paradise because countless varieties of grapes have made the diversity. Masseto can perfectly work with local Italian foods. For example,  lasagna, the classic Italian food. In Tuscany, this pairing can be seen among citizens. In Southern Italy, pizza is a favorite food item that can be a great perspective with a glass of Masseto’s wine. Food items like lamb, beef, poultry, veal, and cured meat can also be a great combination with these wines.

Are You Thinking of the Worth Before Purchasing Any Vintages from Masseto?

Masseto wines are expensive, but it is worth the high-price tag. These wines do not compromise with the flavor as the company uses high-quality grapes, and the aging potentials of its wines are also praisable. If you are thinking before buying these famous wines, purchase them without any second thought if it is affordable for you because the prestigious and delicious red wine of Masseto is waiting for you to make your day.