2024 G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont

Bright as a just-picked cherry, this Nebbiolo zips across the palate like lightning in a summer storm. Rose petals and almost-ripe raspberries dance with wisps of bay leaf, while tart cherries and red currants build like a wave, letting the savory herbs play between their bright beats. It's a lesson in how to make a serious wine sing for everyone's table. 

94 points Jeff Porter for Wine Enthusiast

G.D. Vajra has become one of the defining names of Piedmont, producing wines that beautifully capture the elegance and authenticity of the Langhe. Established by Aldo Vajra and now led by the next generation of the family, the estate is admired for its unwavering commitment to organic farming, traditional winemaking and meticulous attention to every vineyard parcel. Their Langhe Nebbiolo is far more than an introduction to the variety. It is a wine that reflects the same philosophy and precision found in the estate's celebrated Barolos, offering remarkable character, fragrance and value.

Sourced from carefully selected vineyards surrounding Barolo, the fruit comes from limestone rich marl soils that encourage Nebbiolo to develop aromatic complexity while retaining freshness and vibrant acidity. The excellent 2024 growing season delivered beautifully balanced fruit, with slow ripening preserving purity and finesse. Gentle fermentation and maturation in large seasoned oak casks allow the wine's delicate perfume and silky texture to take centre stage, creating a Langhe Nebbiolo that is both approachable in its youth and unmistakably true to its origins.

Bright garnet with ruby highlights, the nose is immediately expressive, opening with redcurrant, sour cherry and wild raspberry before revealing notes of dried herbs, anise, rosehip, blood orange and crushed stone. As it opens, subtle hints of black tea, cinnamon bark and woodland earth emerge, adding complexity without overshadowing the vibrant fruit. The palate is medium bodied and wonderfully refined, combining lively red berry flavours with finely woven tannins and refreshing acidity. A gentle mineral line carries the wine through a long, savoury finish, leaving an impression of energy, balance and classic Piedmont charm.

An outstanding match for mushroom risotto, tajarin with ragù, roast duck, grilled pork loin or mature Pecorino. Delicious from release after a short decant, it will continue to gain complexity over the next six to eight years, rewarding those who appreciate Nebbiolo's graceful evolution.