G.D. Vajra Barolo DOCG Albe 2019, Piedmont, Italy

“Our tribute to the Masters of tradition, Albe is the blend of high elevation Barolo vineyards. As these blocks lay on various slopes with different exposures, we have the chance to see three sunrises (Albe) every day. 100% Nebbiolo. Albe is a blend of Barolo DOCG vineyards with exposures that range from south-south-east to south-west, at high elevation between 380 and 480 m above sea level. Fruit was harvested between October 7th and 19th. 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, and lasted 27 days on average, with partial submerged cap maceration. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurred in stainless steel during the following spring. Aging: 23 months in large Slavonian oak casks of 50 and 75 hectoliters. Bottling on July 20th and 22nd, 2022. Tasting notes: 2019 Barolo Albe features a classic pigeon blood garnet color, with a very lively core. A rush of red berries, raspberries, and red currants is wrapped by a layer of sweet spices. The mouthfeel opens with a gorgeous balance, great energy and refined tannins, and the aftertaste echoes the aromatics with lingering complexity.