The 2005 Costa Russi shimmers on the palate with extraordinary grace. The wine boasts wonderful depth and richness in its dark red fruit in a round generous style that offers lovely balance to the tannins. Notes of tar smoke and licorice develop in the glass adding a touch of complexity and nuance that is sometimes missing in this bottling. The French oak is present but deftly balanced with the wine's other components. As always Costa Russi comes across as relatively accessible when young but it is sure to only improve with age. Recent bottles of the 1985 have been nothing short of glorious. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.

There's fabulous fruit on the nose which is very pure with crushed blackberry and blueberry. Full-bodied with superrefined tannins and a long caressing finish. A very classy wine. This is so long and beautiful. Lasts for minutes on the palate. Best after 2014. 800 cases made. -JS