2008 G.D. Vajra, Barolo DOCG “Bricco Delle Viole” Piedmonte, Italy.
This wine is utterly spellbinding and mesmerizing with purity and drive that harnesses the absolute best qualities of the Nebbiolo grape and in doing so makes for one of the greatest Barolo experiences I’ve ever had, right up there with the finest such as Giacosa, Gaja, La Spinetta Campe and Vietti. From top to bottom, the last few vintages of G.D. Vajra have been nearly flawless and amazingly detailed, and the pinnacle of their efforts is this Bricco Delle Viole Barolo, a wine from a slightly better than average vintage, this Barolo is a masterpiece in every way imaginable. I was lucky to have been able to sample this one from a pre release sample along side their 2007, no slouch either, and I was completely blown away, in fact a colleague saw my expression and remarked he had the same exact reaction, totally and completely shocked by the remarkable perfection of this wine. The nose is haunting with wilted roses, dried violets, grilled herbs, truffle and liqueur notes with liquified strawberry, black cherry, poached plum and melted black licorice all flowing from bouquet to finish. There is a detailed delicacy to go with the hidden power and verve that sets this Barolo apart and there is a lovely mineral streak and both the acidity and tannin are presented in a elegant fashion, you know they are there, but everything is refined and smooth without losing the life and lift here. Sometimes words fail, fail completely to convey the completeness and pleasure, and this is one of those occasions, I can only say I hope you get a chance to try this truly brilliant Barolo. It is without question one of the years best wines, and it has about a decade to be at it’s best, but I would have a terrible time waiting it out.
($90+ Est.) 97-98+ Points, grapelive
Avail at www.sfwtc.com ($89.95)