2010 G.D. Vajra, Barolo “Bricco delle Viole” DOCG, Piedmonte, Italy.
Giuseppe Vajra’s wines are absolutely beautiful, especially his latest set of Baroli, three from his family estate and the three he does under the Luigi Baudana label. This year they released a new Cru Vajra Barolo, the Ravera, and it is the most expressive and forward of his wines to date, this is a real beauty, but I have to give a shout out to their top wine, the Bricco delle Viole, this wine will require some cellar time to show it’s full potential, it has the structure and grace of a top Grand Cru Burgundy, I found it very much like a Rousseau Chambertin, though with classic Nebbiolo markers and character, though I hope you get my point, this is fantastic stuff and a treasure to hunt for. The G.D. Vajra lineup is stunning, from their amazing Riesling and Freisa to these gorgeous Baroli, this is one of Italy’s great rising stars, and this 2010 Bricco delle Viole is a masterpiece with power and elegance, along with glorious detail and length, I can’t wait to taste it at full maturity in about 10 to 15 years, I can only dream that I get that chance! The 2010 G.D. Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole starts with tight force and takes time to unfold in the glass with black cherry, tar, game, licorice and mint/herbs slowly showing up before an impact of massive proportions on the palate with damson plum, liqueur, bacon, wild strawberry, hoisin and savory elements along with truffle, mineral and spicy cedar notes. Lingering violets, rose oil and lavender mix with earth, saline and tangy currants, all pushed up from the background by lifting acidity and firm tannins in this impressive and gripping Barolo. This is a blockbuster effort and a living classic, drink from 2020 to 2030, this will be a wine for the ages!
($90 Est.) 96-98 Points, grapelive
