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

2008
7 In Stock
750ml
V(?+)94
WA94
JS94
FM94
WS93
CT93
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Tasting Notes

WA94
he 2008 Costa Russi is absolutely gorgeous. Sweet dark cherries, tar, licorice and new leather are some of the aromas and flavors that take shape in the glass. The 2008 is a firm Costa Russi, with less of the seductiveness of most years, but equally fine balance. Ideally it needs a few more years in bottle, but it is striking. The finish shows terrific intensity. The typical juiciness of the site is framed by the firm tannins of the year. Everything that makes Costa Russi such an engaging wine is here, but in a slightly smaller-scaled package than in the very finest years. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028.
JS94
Blackberries and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a round texture. All in finesse and length. Best after 2013.

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