2019 G.D. Vajra Nebbiolo a seamless window onto peerless charm
“A taste of Vajra finesse at an entry level price, is the message.” That’s how Gary Walsh of The Wine Front summed up the ’19 Nebbiolo. It’s a wine on a winning streak – flying the Nebb flag three years ahead of the Barolo release, to give us a taste if what we’re in for.
It’s a glorious wine in its own right, and the same can be said for all the estate’s Piedmont varietal classics. The Vaira family’s estate vineyards allow them to go to town on these, celebrating the inherent character and structure of Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo while heightening good, old-fashioned yumminess.
For once let’s just shine a light on these.
2019 G.D. Vajra Dolcetto d’Alba $40
A fresh, cherry-flavoured version, with a hint of black pepper and earth accents. It’s balanced and juicy, with a tactile feel on the finish. Drink now. 88 points. Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator
2018 G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba $49
Packed with black cherry, blackberry and toasty spice flavours, this red is rich and dense. Lively acidity keeps it focused and drives the lingering finish. Drink now through 2024. 90 points. Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator
2019 G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo $54
Red fruits, almond paste, aniseed, sweet spice and floral notes. It’s medium-bodied, pure and fine, cherry and red fruits, fennel and almond, crisp feel here, brightness and perfume, light brick dust tannin, a quiet succulence, and a long cool finish. A taste of Vajra finesse at an entry level price, is the message. 93 points. Gary Walsh, The Wine Front