G.D. Vajra 'Langhe Rosso' 2023

The unusual 6 grape blend of Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Freisa, Albarossa and Pinot Noir (!) ensures the ‘Rosso’ appellation designator applies. A fruity wine, relative to the traditionally dry Nebbiolo offering, but shows good complexity despite its ‘entry level’ position. It is hard to find proper Lange reds at this price level.

Not at all what I was expecting. This is a very nice early drinking red and light years away from my assumption it would be a dry tannic monster. Fruits a touch on the sweet side but well defined. Super pleasant and only hints of tannin late. Needs more structure to be serious but as an immediate 'go-to' full marks.

"Langhe Rosso remains one of my favourite little gems, almost always overdelivering quality wine for price. That's especially true with a legendary producer like G.D. Vajra. Varja's Langhe Rosso is a blend of younger vine nebbiolo, barbera, dolcetto, fresia, albarossa, and pinot noir, meant to give an overview of the region. This is sourced from various vineyards, each variety vinified separately, fermented in stainless, and then into French barrels from new to 3 years in age, for 2 years. Raspberry leather, cherry blossoms, scrubby thorns are woven throughout this medium bodied red, with fine, toothsome tannins pinning in the sides through a lifted pink peppercorn finish. Great energy and charm in this humble Rosso, one that will be welcome at most any dinner table."  Treve Ring. gismondionwine.com