2021 G.D. Vajra Barolo Ravera DOCG, Piedmont

From one of the most sought-after crus sites today, the G.D. Vajra 2021 Barolo Ravera opens to a vibrant ruby color. The wine takes its time opening, especially when tasted young, but that delay bodes well for its future bottle evolution. This wine is built like a wall, with each brick representing its own distinct character. There is dark fruit, pressed flower, herb, ebony and a very elegant mineral side. The bouquet is direct and vertical, with lifted intensity over a medium-plus palate. The tannins are elegantly managed, and this wine has the latitude for long cellar aging. It ferments in stainless steel and ages in large oak casks.

The Vaira family of G.D. Vajra has added a new vineyard to its holdings. The new parcel is located in Bonoretto in Diano d'Alba and is planted to Barbera and Riesling.

97+ points robertparker.com

This wine shows aromas of black cherries, fresh violets, thyme and touches of mint and smoke. Relaxing attack on the palate, with firm, dusty yet ripe tannins and crisp acidity. Medium- to full-bodied, it needs time to reach its full potential. Try from 2027.

95 points jamessuckling.com

G.D. Vajra Barolo Ravera DOCG is a benchmark single-vineyard Barolo from one of the region’s most respected traditional producers. The Ravera cru, located in the commune of Novello, is known for its altitude, limestone-rich soils, and the slow, balanced ripening it provides Nebbiolo. The result is a wine of intensity, structure and remarkable ageing potential.

Aldo and Giuseppe Vaira handle this site with extraordinary care. Fruit is handpicked and sorted, then fermented using wild yeasts in vertical oak vats. Maceration is long and gentle, often lasting up to 50 days, followed by ageing in large Slavonian oak casks. The process is slow, traditional and designed to highlight purity, aromatics and depth.

The wine is finely detailed and aromatic, offering layers of rose petal, red cherry, dried cranberry, anise, mint and ironstone. The palate is powerful yet poised, with firm tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, tightly wound finish that will unwind beautifully over the next two decades. Ravera delivers both precision and soul.

A natural match for braised meats, truffle risotto, wild game or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Cellar with confidence for 10 to 25 years.