Angelo Gaja : Barbaresco 2014

A Historic Vintage for a Distinguished Winery

Founded in 1859, Gaja grew from a mere five acre plot to a leading Italian producer with an international reputation. Hailing from Spain, the Gaja’s moved to the Piedmont region and have passed down the winery through five generations. In the 1960s, the Gaja family acquired top vineyards in Barbaresco including the three crus for which the winery is best known for: Sorì San Lorenzo, Sorì Tildìn and Costa Russi. In the 1970s, Angelo Gaja introduced sweeping changes to the winery that revolutionized not only the estate but the Italian wine industry as well. Gaja implemented higher density planting, green harvesting, lower yields, temperature-controlled vinifications, shorter macerations, new French oak barriques and longer corks. He also planted French varieties in Barbaresco. Today the winery has 605 acres between Piedmont, Bolgheri and Montalcino and has a new project in the works in Etna.

The Barbaresco 2014 is a blend of 14 different parcels with firm structure and a long complex finish. It has the classic Nebbiolo aroma of violet, raspberry and cranberry with similar flavors on the palate along with a dash of spice and acidity for a well-balanced delightful wine. This particular vintage was a cool and wet growing season for the region, yet this wine shines as one of the best vintages for the area and the winery.