2025 G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont

An intense, brilliant ruby red with plenty of violet highlights. The nose is still youthful and reductive; with aeration, notes of ripe cherry, thyme, and nutmeg emerge. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with crisp acidity, pronounced tannins, and a spicy finish.

93 points Falstaff

There is something irresistible about Nebbiolo when it captures the perfume and elegance of Barolo without demanding years of patience. G.D. Vajra is one of Piedmont's most admired family estates, founded by Aldo Vajra in 1972 in the village of Vergne, above Barolo. Today, Aldo, Milena and their children continue the family's commitment to thoughtful farming and beautifully expressive wines that celebrate the character of the Langhe.

Their Langhe Nebbiolo is a wonderful introduction to this noble grape, combining the fragrant personality of young Nebbiolo with the structure and savoury complexity that make Piedmont's reds so compelling. The 2025 is a youthful expression, with bright red fruit, floral aromatics and the variety's characteristic freshness.

Bright ruby red with delicate garnet reflections. Wild cherry, raspberry and redcurrant mingle with rose petals, violet, orange peel and a hint of liquorice. The palate is lively and finely structured, with juicy red berries, refreshing acidity and gently grippy tannins. Subtle notes of dried herbs, anise and earthy spice carry through a fragrant, savoury finish.

Try it with handmade agnolotti filled with roasted pumpkin and sage, grilled tuna with tomato and capers, or a rich eggplant parmigiana. Its bright fruit and elegant tannins also make it a lovely match for duck breast with cherries and thyme.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Delightful for its youthful perfume, with enough structure to develop further savoury character over several years.