If you were born in 2005 or have a significant anniversary in that year then the good news is that the Bordeaux produced a wonderful Vintage - one of the best of the noughties. Portugal produced some fabulous wines that are drinking well today.
Vintage Port: The 2005 Port Vintage was not widely declared but, nevertheless produced some excellent ports. The big producers did not declare the vintage and concentrated on producing Single Quinta ports from selected vineyards. Some smaller producers did declare 2005. The 2005 vintage ports are already approachable but would benefit from further cellaring.
Italian: In Tuscany and Piedmont climate conditions were erratic, with many producers saying 2005 had been a tough and difficult vintage. These tough weather conditions often mean that only the best producers get the best results; the best wines will be Brunello, Barolo or Barbaresco.
Bordeaux: 2005 was an outstanding vintage in Bordeaux, one that produced wines that are rich in substance, flavour and tannin, and from which most have good acidity. 2005 Bordeaux wines were built in many cases for the long haul. The flavours are fresh and certainly cool climate in style, despite the character of the vintage; many show delightfully lively cranberry, redcurrant, red cherry and crunchy blackcurrant leaf character, and yet have a depth, substance and richness. These would make a great 18 year old wine gift for an anniversary this year.