2024 G.D. Vajra Clare J.C. Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont

A time machine to the old Langhe, before tourism found these hills. This vibrant Nebbiolo leaps with candied cherries and plump raspberries, while fresh-cut wild mint adds an aromatic lift. Its gentle bubbles and supple texture make this dangerously drinkable, buy it in threes. Here's a wine that reminds us what wine is truly for: pure joy, shared moments, and the kind of happiness that sparks creativity. It's the wine you didn't know you were craving, until now.

94 points Wine Enthusiast

Few producers capture the spirit of Piedmont with the grace and consistency of G.D. Vajra. Founded by Aldo Vajra and today guided by Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro Vajra, this much admired family estate has become one of Barolo's great standard bearers, combining traditional winemaking with meticulous organic farming. The Clare J.C. Langhe Nebbiolo honours the family's matriarch, Clara, whose passion and generosity helped shape the values that continue to define the winery. It is a wonderfully expressive introduction to Nebbiolo, offering the perfume and finesse of the variety with an earlier drinking appeal than the estate's celebrated Barolos.

Fruit is sourced from younger vines and carefully selected parcels surrounding the family's prized vineyards in the Langhe, where limestone rich marl soils and elevated sites encourage slow, even ripening. The outstanding 2024 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional freshness, aromatic lift and natural balance. Gentle extraction and maturation in large seasoned oak preserve Nebbiolo's purity and elegance, allowing the vineyard character to remain at the forefront.

Bright garnet with youthful ruby highlights, the bouquet is vibrant and inviting, revealing aromas of red currant, pomegranate and Morello cherry woven with violet, fennel seed and fragrant mountain herbs. As the wine opens, subtle notes of black tea, crushed stone, sweet spice and dried orange peel emerge, bringing added depth and complexity. The palate is medium bodied, finely textured and beautifully energetic, with juicy red fruits framed by supple tannins and lively acidity. Delicate savoury notes, a gentle mineral thread and a lingering finish give the wine an elegance that belies its approachable style.

A natural partner for tajarin with mushroom ragù, grilled pork cutlets, roast chicken with herbs, duck breast or aged Fontina. Enjoy its youthful fragrance over the next five to eight years, or cellar for a little longer as the wine develops additional savoury complexity.