G.D. Vajra - Barolo Bricco Delle Viole 2019 (Pre-arrival) (750ml)
Kerin O'Keefe: 97 Points
The G.D. Vajra 2019 Bricco delle Viole is drop-dead gorgeous. Hailing from vines planted in 1931 and 1949 and planted 400 to 480 meters above sea level it opens with enticing aromas of fragrant purple flower camphor forest floor and spice. Showing great energy and precision the youthfully intense palate delivers juicy red cherry blood orange licorice and crushed mint underscored by a mineral vein recalling saline. Tight fine-grained tannins and bright acidity give provide the firm structure and promise great longevity. Drink 2029?2049. Abv: 14% Kerin O?Keefe
Vinous: 97 Points
The 2019 Barolo Bricco delle Viole offers a beguiling combination of depth and energy. Dark and potent in the glass yet also quite reticent the 2019 is going to take a number of years to come around. Black cherry graphite crushed rocks mint sage and incense all open in the glass but only with quite a bit of reticence. I especially like the way the 2019 opens up on its resonant expansive finish but it remains a decidedly brooding Barolo whose best days are far off in the future. (Drink between 2029-2049)
jdWine Advocate: 97+ Points
The last wine poured at my tasting at the winery is the G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Bricco delle Viole. With its high vantage point in the hills west of Barolo Bricco delle Viole is a world apart in terms of soils (with Sant'Agata marl and fossils) and even harvest times. Slow and careful ripening like the kind that characterizes fruit in 2019 renders a very delicate and ethereal expression with floral tones wild mint and licorice. This organic wine is solid in build and structure. Indeed Isidoro Vaira remarks that Nebbiolo tannins have changed since the 1970s and 1980s. Because of climate change and stylistic preference they are more polished and accessible today. The most interesting portfolio of wines from Piedmont in my onion is the one thoughtfully put together by G.D. Vajra. Given the variety of flavors and the many local grapes used my annual tasting at this estate is always one of my favorites. This year I tasted with Isidoro Vaira one of three siblings that runs the winery with sister Francesca and brother Giuseppe. Parents Milena and Aldo Vaira are also busily involved at the winery making this a dynamic family-run reality. Published: Aug 24 2023
Jeb Dunnuck: 97+ Points
Jeweled in appearance the 2019 Barolo Bricco Delle Viole may be the best wine I have tried yet from Vajra. Its gorgeous and alluring perfume of fresh roses is followed by a Burgundian elegant red with incredible length and no harsh edges fine and present tannins and beautiful graceful concentration. It is drinking well now and I will be trying to get my hands on as much of this as possible. Drink 2025-2045. The G.D. Vajra estate is based within the commune of Barolo with the entire family contributing and Giuseppe and Aldo Vajra at the helm of the winemaking responsibilities. Giuseppe who took more of a leadership role in 2008 has been instrumental in continuing to develop the family estate while Isidoro Vajra leads in vineyard management. Most recently they have completed the expansion of their cellar space and offices. They are also now releasing their wines a touch later to allow for additional time in bottle to soften any harsh edges. As of the 2019 vintage both the G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana estates are certified organic.
Wine Spectator: 96 Points
A juicy Barolo with vibrant acidity and a fluid profile that exudes cherry raspberry mown hay mineral and eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Tight yet long with excellent potential. Best from 2027 through 2048. 1250 cases made.
