G.D. VAJRA ALBE BAROLO DOCG 2020

G.D. Vajra stands as one of Piedmont’s most respected estates, producing wines that combine tradition, precision and a deep sense of place. Based in Barolo, the Vajra family has built a reputation for crafting wines that emphasise elegance over sheer power, allowing Nebbiolo to express itself with clarity and refinement. The Barolos are aromatic and structured, offering fine tannins, lifted red fruit and a natural balance that evolves beautifully with time. Across the range, there is a consistent sense of composure, with each wine reflecting careful vineyard work and a thoughtful, measured approach in the cellar. Vajra’s wines are approachable in their youth yet capable of significant ageing, making them appealing to both collectors and engaged drinkers. For those seeking Barolo with finesse, transparency and classical structure, G. D. Vajra remains a benchmark producer of enduring quality.

Located in the Barolo village of Vergne, G. D. Vajra produces Barolo Albe from Nebbiolo grown in several high-altitude vineyards including Fossati, La Volta and Coste di Vergne. The name refers to the three sunrises that touch the vineyards during harvest season. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts followed by ageing in large Slavonian oak casks. The balanced 2020 vintage delivered both structure and freshness. Compared with the estate’s single-vineyard Barolos, Albe offers a broader expression of the appellation, combining red cherry, rose petal and spice with refined tannins and mineral finish.

Winery notes (2020 Vintage)
"Albe is our 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.

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.

In 2020 the fruit for our Barolo Albe was picked between October 1st and 14th. Grapes were sorted manually three times: directly on the vine, as whole clusters on the sorting tables and lastly as single berries after destemming. Vinification was carried out in custom-designed vertical tini, with gentle punch down and pump-overs. We had a diversity of maceration lengths, from 27 up to 57 days (the latter case, under submerged-cap). Spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurred in stainless steel during the following spring."

94/100 & #9 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2024 (2020 Vintage)
"This effusive red displays cherry, raspberry, rose, iron, juniper and hay flavours, underscored by vibrant acidity. Harmonious and supple in texture, with a long aftertaste of red fruit, mineral and floral elements."

94/100 RobertParker.com, Wine Advocate (2020 Vintage)
"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."