The 2005 Redigaffi was born in a vintage that was not quite as easy as 2004, but it produced impressive results nonetheless. The wine shows medium richness and extract, but there is enough plummy fruit and dark blackberry to flesh out the mouthfeel and drive a long finish. The length of the wine is also linked to the pretty freshness that gives backbone and vitality to this Tuscan Merlot.

The 2005 Redigaffi (Merlot) is the most finessed, elegant Redigaffi I can recall. This is a Redigaffi that emphasizes clarity and precision over sheer power. Suggestions of new leather, spices, plums, currants, minerals, blueberry jam and toasted oak emerge from this medium-bodied effort. Although the 2005 might not have the structure of previous vintages, the tannins are beautifully balanced and the wine offers terrific overall harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022.In the difficult 2005 vintage Tua Rita proves why it deserves a spot among the finest estates in Italy. This is truly a stellar showing from proprietor Stefano Frascolla and consulting oenologist Stefano Chioccioli made all the more notable considering the less than ideal conditions the 2005 vintage presented.A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

This wine is at the top of its class in a new generation of super Tuscan producers. Plush and velvety, it opens with rich aromas of chocolate, cherry, peppercorn, black fruit and cola. Thick extraction sets the tone for a lush wine that requires a few more years in the bottle: Drink after 2012.——M.L.(4/1/2008)—— 95