Amarone & Valpolicella wines from 2005

An uneven year temperature-wise, but one which ended up averaging quite encouragingly hot despite a cool spring. However, this was counteracted by the rain and general humidity throughout July and August, which meant a general reduction in diurnal temperature variation. A hot, dry September was a boost, however, pushing the vintage from good to excellent, even in spite of a wettish autumn, although those hot nights meant a relative lack of acidity, and consequently a reduction in the amount of wine from this year with true ageing potential. Nevertheless, much wine from this year did make it, with many bottles still going nicely.