Not an easy year in Piedmont, with severe frosts hitting the region towards the end of flowering, followed by a freak hailstorm that hit Barbaresco in July. The rest of the summer was hot and dry before the weather broke in mid September and it rained solidly for 17 days. The harvest took place in October, with the weather remaining predominantly dry. Overall a lower than average crop of medium-bodied wines were produced which will make very satisfying drinking while waiting for the more substantial 95s and 96s to develop in bottle.

Tuscany witnessed better growing conditions with a long, hot summer and little rain during September. Very good wines were produced in Chianti and some concentrated and complex wines were produced in Montalcino. However, quality was inconsistent, so it is important to stick with the top producers.