2005 Masseto, Tuscany, Italy

Tasted next to the 2002, the 2005 Masseto is perhaps a bit edgier, with an extra kick of tannic intensity that gives the wine its sense of direction and a good kick of energy, too. I very much admire the tension in the 2005, a wine built on freshness, aromatic depth, and mid-weight structure. Cool, rainy weather towards the end of the season resulted in a late harvest between September 14 and 30.

Drink 2018 - 2030

It is always special to taste a winemaker’s first wines, and tasting the 2005 Masseto alongside Axel Heinz perfectly captures the emotion and purpose of wine: a living art form to be shared and bring people together. The 2005 Masseto is rich with herbaceous layers of kirsch, thyme, worn leather, and menthol. It is fleshy and full, with mocha and black truffle, and is still flush with ripe fruit that coaxes through the mid-palate, with a present and firm structure. There is still enough life left in it to go at least another decade.

Drink 2022 - 2032

This is a Masseto that is its own now, with balance and harmony. It shows delicate chocolate and berry character with hints of hazelnut. It has a medium to full body and a long, silky finish.

Drink now

This is such an enticing wine, shot through with black truffle, raspberry puree, tender tannins, with caressing waves of woodsmoke and violet. So good to drink now, this is one of my favourite of the lineup, elegant, nuanced, with a similar feel to the 2001 and 2018. This was Axel Heinz's first vintage, and one of his first decisions was to pick the best plots almost two weeks later than had been typical, right through to September 30. 100% new oak.

Drink 2021 - 2036