Vajra Barolo Albe 2020

Vajra Barolo Albe 2020

The 'Albe' is Giuseppe Vaira's tip of the cap to the great Piemontese winemakers of the 1950s and 1960s.

During those times, the general philosophy for many of the winemakers in the region was to combine Nebbiolo from the best Cru vineyards in order to create a more 'complete' wine. Today, single vineyard bottlings have become much more in vogue, however, there's still a place for a truly great blend.

“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.” 93 points - Zekun Shuai (JamesSuckling.com)

“The 2020 Barolo Albe is light-bodied, elegant and gracious. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, spice, new leather and dried herbs are all nicely lifted. Bright acids and nervy tannins give the wine its shape and overall character. The Albe is meant to be an entry-level offering, but I find it often blossoms with a year or two in bottle. The Albe is not terribly complex in 2020, but it’s a delight.”90 points - Antonio Galloni (Vinous)

"Described as ‘the first post-modernist Barolo’. Great to drink young yet ageworthy, too. Blend of three high vineyards, Fossati, La Volta and Coste di Vergne in the commune of Barolo, each vinified separately. Maceration is 20–30 days. No more than 18 months in botte for the last 15 years or so. They want to keep freshness and decide on the exact blend for Albe only just before bottling. Intense, mineral and racy. Edgy and quite modern. But a bit dry on the end.” 16/20 - Jancis Robinson (JancisRobinson.com)