Nebbiolo 100%
Gaja is one of the best-known wine producers in all of Italy. Originating in and still based in Barbaresco, in northwest Italy, the Gaja name remains most strongly associated with Nebbiolo-based wines, though the company now makes more wine in Tuscany than Piedmont. The business was founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja with just two hectares (five acres) of vineyards in Barbaresco. Each generation saw expansion, although Angelo Gaja, who took over full-time in 1970, is often credited with the estate’s more recent success.
This 2019 Barbaresco has glaring vivid colors thanks to a good presence of anthocyanins. It immediately brings out notes of rose and wild strawberries followed by lighter notes of marzipan, wild fennel and a hint of juniper. Tasting saline, the wine has good length and a perception of crisp red fruits balanced by bright acidity. Together with the freshness and a tense structure, they define the main characteristics of the 2019 vintage.
ROBERT PARKER – 95POINTS
