The wine
 
The 2016 Masseto experienced an unusually warm winter with ample rainfall, followed by an optimal start to spring that allowed the vines to grow quickly and evenly. Despite normal summer temperatures, a lack of rainfall led to water stress, which was mitigated by cool nights, allowing for continuous maturation with excellent phenolic potential and a balanced sugar-acid ratio. The harvest started early and was completed under nearly ideal conditions due to late rains in September, benefiting especially the older vines. The vinification was conducted in separate batches followed by a 24-month aging period in new oak barrels and an additional twelve months of bottle aging before the 100% Merlot was released.
 
The winery
 
In 1986, the wine was first introduced under the Ornellaia label and a year later it was independently labeled as "Masseto." Although the estate belonged to Tenuta dell’Ornellaia until 2006, Masseto was registered as an independent winery in 2007, but remains part of the Frescobaldi Group, which also owns Ornellaia. Originally founded in 1981 by Marchese Lodovico Antinori, most of the vineyards are located around Bolgheri, benefiting from direct sunlight and maritime breezes.