1968 was indeed a fascinating year for wine, with both ups and downs across different regions and varieties. While Bordeaux experienced a rather challenging vintage, Italy saw a resurgence in quality, particularly in the regions of Tuscany and Piedmont. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and study wines from this vintage, and I can share my insights on the overall quality and character of the wines produced in 1968.
1. Bordeaux – A Challenging Year:
1968 was not a standout year for Bordeaux. The weather conditions during the growing season were less than ideal, with a cool and wet summer leading to difficulties in ripening the grapes fully. The resulting wines tend to lack the depth, concentration, and complexity typically associated with Bordeaux. While some wines from this vintage may still possess charm and elegance, they generally lack the structure and longevity of better years. It is important to note, however, that there are always exceptions, and certain châteaux may have managed to produce noteworthy wines despite the challenging conditions.
2. Italy's Renaissance:
In contrast to Bordeaux, Italy experienced a sort of renaissance in 1968. Tuscany and Piedmont, in particular, saw the production of some excellent wines. Barolo, known for its powerful and long-lived Nebbiolo-based wines, proved to be a standout performer in this vintage. The wines from 1968 exhibit a lovely combination of ripe red fruit, earthy notes, and firm tannins. They have aged gracefully and can still offer a delightful drinking experience today.
3. Brunello di Montalcino – A Hidden Gem:
Another Italian heavyweight, Brunello di Montalcino, also shone in 1968. This wine, made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes grown in the Montalcino region of Tuscany, is known for its rich, complex, and age-worthy nature. The 1968 vintage displays the classic characteristics of Brunello di Montalcino, including aromas of cherry, leather, and tobacco, with a firm structure and long finish. These wines have evolved beautifully over the years, and if well stored, they can still be enjoyed today.
4. Other Italian Regions:
Besides Tuscany and Piedmont, several other Italian regions produced noteworthy wines in 1968. For instance, the wines from the Veneto region, such as Amarone della Valpolicella, have shown good aging potential and retained their vibrant, concentrated flavors. In addition, the wines from the southern regions of Campania and Sicily also displayed promising quality, showcasing the unique terroir and grape varieties of these areas.
5. Personal Experiences:
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting a few wines from the 1968 vintage. One memorable experience was when I had the opportunity to taste a 1968 Barolo from a renowned producer. The wine had a beautiful brick-red color and exuded aromas of dried roses, truffles, and red berries. On the palate, it displayed a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins, with a long and satisfying finish. It was a testament to the aging potential of Barolo and the exceptional quality of the 1968 vintage in Piedmont.
While 1968 was a challenging year for Bordeaux, it marked a renaissance for Italian wines, particularly those from Tuscany and Piedmont. Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino stood out as exceptional examples, showcasing the unique characteristics of their respective regions. Wines from this vintage have aged gracefully and can still offer a delightful drinking experience today.