The 2005 vintage for Tuscany was relatively difficult but some nice wines were made.

A wet winter and cool, uninspiring spring led to an uneven and only partially successful budburst and flowering which naturally cut yields. The summer was unnervingly hot and dry, and many producers feared drought until August delivered heavy rains. After the August deluge, conditions failed to improve with both late summer and autumn bringing further cool, dank weather, particularly to Chianti. Unexpected bouts of rain and hail also proved problematic often leaving rot and disease in their wake. Top estates which command the best terroirs were generally rewarded along with the producers who were the most vigilant in the vineyards.

The resulting yields were, unsurprisingly, down but some good wines were still made but Chianti Classico suffered enormously and many producers refused to release their signature wine. However, the mid-range Sangiovese that was made tended to be pleasant, fruit-forward wines with some capacity to cellar although it rarely had the structure for serious long-term aging. Producers along the coastline were generally more successful as maritime breezes helped keep the vines clean from rot and disease and some good Brunello di Montalcino and Montepulciano were also made. The best examples had fresh bramble forest fruit and a vibrant acidity which was naturally preserved by the cooler temperatures.

Although the weather scuppered any chances of a great 2005 Tuscan vintage, some nice wines were still made. The vast majority were best suited for early drinking and many are likely to be past their best; careful research is probably needed to find the odd one or two still drinking well now.

" Blackberry, currant and liquorice aromas follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a long finish of chocolate, berry and toasty oak. Best after 2011." -- Wine Spectator