G.D. Vajra Bricco Delle Viole Barolo 2019

G.D. Vajra is one of Barolo's most beloved and respected family estates, founded by Aldo Vajra in the 1970s in Vergne, a hamlet in the commune of Barolo itself. Aldo was a pioneer of what might be called the traditionalist school of Barolo, favoring long macerations, large Slavonian oak casks, and a deep respect for the Nebbiolo grape’s natural character. Today the estate is guided by his children Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro, who continue the same philosophy and commitment to expressing the singular terroir of their vineyards. Vajra is also one of the appellation's most passionate advocates for indigenous varieties and sustainable farming, and their wines are consistently among the finest and most honest expressions of Barolo.

The Bricco delle Viole is Vajra’s most celebrated single vineyard Barolo, sourced from a high altitude vineyard in the Vergne hamlet whose name, Hill of Violets, speaks to the extraordinary floral character that defines wines from this site. At over 400 meters elevation, the vineyard produces Nebbiolo of exceptional freshness, aromatic complexity, and longevity. The 2019 vintage in Piedmont was warm and generous, and the Bricco delle Viole reflects that with a depth and concentration that is remarkable. Garnet with an orange rim, the nose is hauntingly beautiful: dried rose, violet, and cherry intertwined with tar, leather, tobacco, and a deep mineral undercurrent. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, with the firm, drying tannins and electric acidity that define great Barolo, and a finish of extraordinary length and complexity.

The G.D. Vajra Bricco delle Viole Barolo 2019 is a wine for both the cellar and the table, magnificent alongside braised beef, roasted lamb, white truffle dishes, or aged Parmigiano Reggiano, and built to evolve gracefully for two decades or more.