The reviews are in on this afternoon's feature - and they prove that you don't have to have a decades-old, multi-generational estate to produce spectacular Barolos. Indeed, some of the region's "newer" estates can compete on the world's wine stage with the heavy hitters!
Aldo Vajra's winery in Langhe may not be very old, but it faithfully adheres to the centuries-old winemaking traditions of the region. Mr. Vajra makes his Barolos Old-World style, saying, "Traditional wines are more elegant, with more delicate perfumes, leaner, somewhat difficult, but offering more pleasure at the table." His wines possess a degree of elegance and complexity that makes them stand out, even among the lofty wines of Barolo.
"Albe", a tribute to traditional Barolo, is sourced from a blend of high-elevation vineyards where, every day, you can see three beautiful sunrises, or Albe. Aged for 24 months in large Slavonian oak casks of 40, 50, and 75 hectoliters, it is bright garnet red in color, with aromas of dried flowers, red cherries, and light balsamic notes. The palate is vibrant, with hints of rose petals, fresh red cherries and raspberries, spices, tobacco, and orange peel. The finish is long, with fine and elegant tannins. (winery notes)
Check out the press!
95 points, Wine Advocate:
"Do you have a favorite pair of jeans or a favorite dress that you keep in your closet for all occasions? That's the equivalent of this wine. The G.D. Vajra 2021 Barolo Albe is an enormously versatile expression of nebbiolo, with an affordable price, that offers more value for your money than most Barolos out there. The bouquet focuses on dark berry, pressed flower, and crushed stone. It offers good sharpness over broad lines. The mouthfeel is medium-plus in texture, and it closes with silky, accessible tannins. Fruit comes from three cru sites: Coste di Vergne, Fossati, and La Volta."
94 points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2021 Barolo Albe continues to be one of the best values the region has to offer and punches far above its weight class in this vintage. The nose is ripe with fresh, layered notes of pure red cherries, fresh flowers, anise, and refined spices. The palate is fantastic and pure, with a long finish. This is one of the best vintages of this wine I have tasted to date, revealing great definition of structure and a refreshing feel that makes this a fantastic go-to option to check in on again and again as it ages. I would snap these up and get a case or two if you can. Drink over the coming 15-20 years."
94 points, Wine Enthusiast:
"This is Barolo's soul in a glass, capturing the region's magic through carefully blended vineyards. Wild cherries and crushed raspberries dance with fresh mint and bay leaf, while sweet and savory spices swirl beneath. The palate sparks with bright acidity, carrying crunchy red fruits, both fresh and dried, but always vibrant. Fine tannins lay down elegant rails for the wine to travel, showing why Barolo captures the world's imagination. Drink Now - 2045."
Order the 2021 G. D. Vajra Barolo "Albe" between now and Monday, October 27th, at 4 PM. Orders will be ready for pickup on Thursday, October 30th, after 4 PM.
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