G.D. Vajra - Barolo 'Albe' 2020

In 1971, Aldo Vajra, then still a university student, was one of the earliest to adopt organic farming in Piemonte. Vineyards have been nurtured, and soil preserved, by grassing and spontaneous cover crop for almost 50 years now. They are sustainable and organic certified. With an incredible ratio of manual work per hectare, farming at Vajra is a labor of love and “recipe-free” attention. Intense research is also placed into monitoring and improving the biodiversity of both flora and fauna not just in the vineyards, but also in the winery fields and forests.

Albe is a tribute to traditional Barolo and its ‘Maestri’. This is a blend of high-elevation vineyards where, every day, we see three beautiful sunrises - or Albe. The 2020 Albe is already expressive, with layers of red fruits and a generous, textured mouthfeel.

Albe is a blend of Barolo DOCG vineyards with exposures that range from south-south-east to south-west, at high elevation between 380 and 480 m above sea level.

2020 is a truly remarkable vintage and one of the longest of the decade. It started off with an anticipated bud break and slowed down throughout spring and summer, resulting in a late harvest. An abundant flowering, from May 12th, set the stage for perfumy, aerial and redtone dominated wines. Numerous rainfalls, well into July, resulted in a less regular fruit set, much more work in the vineyards, but also milder temperatures, leading to an estimated vegetative cycle of 213 days. Great aromatics, varietal authenticity and gorgeous tannins are the signatures of 2020.

Aged for 26 months in large Slavonian oak casks of 40, 50 and 75 hectoliters. 

Vajra Tasting Notes: 2020 Barolo Albe shows an expressive nose with aromas of fresh cherries, crushed stones and roses. The mouthfeel is bright and energetic, with generous mouthfeel and a youthful tannic structure enriched by notes of raspberry and orange zest. Long, textural finish.

Vajra's Barolo 'Albe' is one the best values in all Piemonte. 

"You can't beat this value. The G.D. Vajra 2020 Barolo Albe is buttoned up with fresh primary fruit, and the wine does not have that hint of over-ripeness that is found across this vintage. The fruit is dark and savory, and there is a big mineral component to match, but the bouquet is nicely redolent of dark currant, plum, granite and a raspy dry note that brings crushed shale to mind. The tannins are quite impactful, and they give this wine extra runway for moderate bottle aging." - 94 points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"This is a bright and lively Barolo showing sliced oranges, raspberries, crushed stones and rose petals on the nose. Medium-bodied, with sharp acidity and tight tannins. Lots of energy. Try from 2027" - 93 points, James Suckling

Producer: G.D. Vajra 

Country: Italy

Region: Piedmont

Varietal: Nebbiolo

Appellation: Barolo

Vintage: 2020

Size: 750ml