G.D. Vajra 'Albe' Nebbiolo, Barolo DOCG, Italy

Dawn stretches across the hills of Barolo, and with it comes the quiet radiance of G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe 2019. Three vineyards greet the morning sun from different slopes, their light converging into a wine that embodies both tradition and clarity. The 2019 vintage glows with balance and grace, fragrant, structured, and full of poised energy that promises years of elegant evolution.

Product Details:

• Owner: Vajra Family (Aldo, Milena, Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro Vajra)
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vineyard Elevation: 380–480 meters above sea level
• Exposure: South-southeast to southwest
• Farming: Certified Organic; spontaneous cover crop and manual vineyard work
• Harvest Period: October 7–19, 2019
• Fermentation: Native yeasts in a custom-designed vertical tini with gentle punchdowns and pump-overs; average maceration 27 days, partial submerged-cap
• Malolactic Fermentation: Spontaneous in stainless steel during spring
• Aging: 23 months in large Slavonian oak casks (50–75 hL)
• Bottling Date: July 20–22, 2022
• ABV: 14%

Sensory Description:

Brilliant garnet in the glass, the 2019 Barolo Albe opens with aromas of red currant, wild raspberry, and sweet spice layered with rose petals and hints of crushed stone. On the palate, it is luminous and finely textured, silky fruit framed by refined tannins and lively acidity. The mid-palate carries depth and grace, unfolding into a long, resonant finish marked by purity, balance, and lingering minerality.

Awards & Accolades:

• Gold — USA Wine Ratings (2023)
  2019 Vintage
• Silver — International Wine & Spirit Competition (2023)
  2019 Vintage
• 94 Points — Robert Parker
• 94 Points — Wine Enthusiast
• 93 Points — James Suckling
• 92 Points — Jeb Dunnuck

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1972 by Aldo and Milena Vajra, G.D. Vajra is one of Barolo’s benchmark family estates. Pioneers of organic viticulture in Piemonte since 1971, the Vajras have spent over five decades cultivating biodiversity and balance in their vineyards, nestled in the hills of Vergne. Today, their children, Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro, carry the legacy forward with thoughtful precision. Albe, a blend of high-elevation sites, serves as their homage to the great Barolo masters, capturing the interplay of light, altitude, and tradition that defines the region’s soul.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve between 60–65°F (16–18°C) in a large red wine glass. Decant for 1–2 hours to allow the aromatics and structure to unfurl. Pair with braised lamb shank, mushroom risotto, or aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. Its freshness and floral lift also complement roasted duck or truffle pasta beautifully.

Radiant and timeless, G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe 2019 reflects the artistry of the Langhe, an eloquent balance of fruit, structure, and light that celebrates Barolo’s most enduring traditions.