Barolo Albe G D Vajra 2020

Barolo Albe, G. D. Vajra, Barolo, Piemonte, Italy, 2020     

Grape: 100% Nebbiolo blended from 3 high altitude vineyards, sustainable farming, organic, aged in large oak vats for 26 to 32 months.

Producer Tasting Note: 

The 2020 Barolo Albe shows an expressive nose with aromas of fresh cherries, crushed stones and roses. The mouthfeel is bright and energetic, with generous mouthfeel and a youthful tannic structure enriched by notes of raspberry and orange zest. Long, textural finish.

2020 is a truly remarkable vintage with great aromatics, varietal authenticity and gorgeous tannins. 

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"Described as ‘the first post-modernist Barolo’. Great to drink young yet ageworthy, too. Blend of three high vineyards, Fossati, Le Volte and Coste di Vergne in the commune of Barolo, each vinified separately. Maceration is 20–30 days. No more than 18 months in botte for the last 15 years or so. They want to keep freshness and decide on the exact blend for Albe only just before bottling. Intense, mineral and racy. Edgy and quite modern. But a bit dry on the end." Drink 2024–2030

16/20 points, Jancis Robinson, JancisRobinson.com, January 2024

"You can't beat this value. The G.D. Vajra 2020 Barolo Albe is buttoned up with fresh primary fruit, and the wine does not have that hint of over-ripeness that is found across this vintage. The fruit is dark and savory, and there is a big mineral component to match, but the bouquet is nicely redolent of dark currant, plum, granite and a raspy dry note that brings crushed shale to mind. The tannins are quite impactful, and they give this wine extra runway for moderate bottle aging." Drink 2025-2038

94/100 points, Monica Larner, WINE ADVOCATE, April 2024

"This effusive red displays cherry, raspberry, rose, iron, juniper and hay flavors, underscored by vibrant acidity. Harmonious and supple in texture, with a long aftertaste of red fruit, mineral and floral elements." Best 2028-2049

94/100 points, Bruce Sanderson, WINE SPECTATOR, December 2024 (#9 in 2024 Wine Spectator "Top 100")

Food Pairing:

Risotto with truffles, roast duck, ribeye steak, chestnut gnocchi with Gorgonzola cream sauce.