Benchmark Wines by

Gaja

The Winery

Gaja

"People who have no tradition have more freedom."
-Angelo Gaja

This famed Piedmont winery has been pairing modernity and tradition to create exquisite wines. While they respect past traditions, the Gaja family is not bound by them, as they consistently institute innovative concepts into classic Italian winemaking.

In the late 1960s, fourth generation winemaker Angelo Gaja implemented new techniques in the vineyard by planting international varietals. In the cellar he employed stricter temperature control of fermentations to more gently handle Nebbiolo’s tannins, and chose to age his wines in French oak barriques. It’s risky making new style wines in the Old World as they are often not well received, but these have been wildly successful. Stylistically, the wines are bold, masculine, austere and acerbic. Great vintages to look out for: 1971, 1982, 1989, 1990, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2007, 200, 2009, 2011.

www.gaja.com

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Tasting Notes

WA96
The 2005 Costa Russi shimmers on the palate with extraordinary grace. The wine boasts wonderful depth and richness in its dark red fruit in a round, generous style that offers lovely balance to the tannins. Notes of tar, smoke and licorice develop in the glass, adding a touch of complexity and nuance that is sometimes missing in this bottling. The French oak is present, but deftly balanced with the wine’s other components. As always, Costa Russi comes across as relatively accessible when young, but it is sure to only improve with age. Recent bottles of the 1985 have been nothing short of glorious. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.
WS96
There's fabulous fruit on the nose, which is very pure, with crushed blackberry and blueberry. Full-bodied, with superrefined tannins and a long, caressing finish. A very classy wine. This is so long and beautiful. Lasts for minutes on the palate. Best after 2014. 800 cases made.

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