2005 Fidenzio

The estate’s 2005 Fidenzio is beginning to acquire early signs of tertiary complexity in its scents of cedar, pipe tobacco and grilled herbs. The fruit retains excellent freshness and vibrancy throughout, while the tannins are those of a cooler year. Ultimately, the 2005 is a Fidenzio that is best suited for the dinner table. The 2005 doesn’t have the sheer juiciness of the 2006 but rather relies on a classic Medoc-like sense of structure to make its case, which it does rather eloquently. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Fidenzio, a Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend from the Tuscan coast, is one of Italy’s most elusive wines. Production is small and distribution is inconsistent, which is why I nearly always have to wait for bottles to appear on retail shelves before I can review the wines. No known US importer.

The 2005 Fidenzio is awesome. This deeply-colored, intense wine emerges from the glass with an enticing array of black cherries, plums, cassis, minerals, herbs and tar. The wine possesses incredible energy and vibrancy that builds on the palate, culminating with powerful yet round tannins on the finish. The wine's richness, density and sheer balance are remarkable, especially within the context of this vintage. Fidenzio is Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Sadly, the wine is very difficult to find in the US, but hopefully readers in other countries will enjoy better access to this unique Tuscan red.