At a glance

Producer

G.D. Vajra

Region

Barolo, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

USD $110–$150 (750ml, retail as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Vivid red cherry, pomegranate, rose petal, wild strawberry, licorice, graphite, subtle spice, and crushed herbs. Firm structure with fresh acidity and a persistent mineral finish.

Evolution: Over time, primary fruit recedes; flavors shift to dried cherry, tobacco leaf, truffle, forest floor, and tar, accenting floral notes with greater complexity and silkiness.

At peak: At peak, expect a harmonious blend of red fruits, dried florals, earthy nuances, sweet spices, and a velvety mouthfeel integrating tannin, acid, and alcohol seamlessly.

Structure

Acidity

High, energetic, ensuring freshness and long-term cellaring potential. Acidity will integrate further over time.

Tannins

Firm, finely-knit, classic for Ravera vieilles vignes; beginning to resolve with aeration but still prominent and youthful.

Alcohol

Balanced (approx. 14.5%), integrated well with the body but may show some youthful warmth.

Aging potential

Excellent; 15–20 years from vintage, possibly longer in optimal storage.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2049

Optimal window

2024 to 2052

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Structured and youthful, tannins beginning to soften but primary fruit persists. Still developing complexity.

The 2028–2035 window is peak because tannins will have fully resolved but primary and secondary notes are still vibrant. During this time, the wine maximizes both freshness and tertiary complexity. Past this window, fading fruit and dominant tertiary notes are likely, losing balance and vibrancy.

Food pairing

Classic pairings: brasato al Barolo (Barolo-braised beef), agnolotti del plin, truffle risotto, roasted lamb, hearty mushroom dishes. In youth, pair with rich meats and aged cheeses; as it evolves, transition to earthy/truffle dishes, game birds, and mature cheeses to complement greater complexity.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The wine has firm tannins that are beginning to resolve but are still prominent, which benefits from aeration to enhance its complexity and soften the mouthfeel.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Manual harvest, cover crops, biodiversity, limited chemical inputs, water management

G.D. Vajra employs organic practices with significant focus on biodiversity and minimal intervention. While not officially certified in all holdings, sustainability efforts are robust, reducing environmental impact and ensuring responsible land stewardship.