8.18 – 8.21

For a printable PDF of this weekend’s notes, click here!

G.D Vajra

Founded in 1972, the estate is named after Giuseppe Domenico. The family has had a presence in the region for more than 200 years, owning vineyards of their own from the 1920s. The estate of G.D Vajra is situated in Vergne, the highest village in the Commune of Barolo. Its vineyards are planted with Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera at heights of 350-400 meters, which result in distinctive and aromatic wines. The Vajra family is a group of dedicated, passionate winegrowers who are also grounded and sensitive to the human role in winemaking. Their philosophy remains faithful to the traditional and authentic wines of Piemonte. In essence, they regard themselves as the instruments that enable nature and the environment full self-expression through their wines.

Luigi Baudana ‘Dragon’ Langhe Bianco 2021

Retail: $21.95 | Sale: $19.76

Luigi Baudana 2021 Langhe Bianco Dragon is mostly Chardonnay with Sauvignon Blanc, Nascetta and a touch of Riesling. These results are glossy and shiny in this vintage, showing enormous purity and lifted intensity. The bouquet is beautiful, with orchard fruit, preserved lemon and an elegant touch of natural rubber that works perfectly. In fact, you can smell the wine even when the glass is placed far away.

Vajra ‘Rosabella’ Rosato 2021

Retail: $19.95 | Sale: $17.95

The 2021 Rosato Rosabella is understated yet pretty, capturing the eye with its pale pink color, and then the senses with nuances of rose, strawberries and a dusting of spice. It’s soothingly soft, with a pleasant inner sweetness offset by vibrant acidity and citrus-tinged orchard fruits. This leaves the palate completely refreshed, as a salty flourish punctuates the experience quite nicely.

Rosabella is a blend of 85% Nebbiolo, 10% Barbera and 5% Dolcetto.

Vajra ‘CLARÉ J.C.’ Nebbiolo 2021

Retail: $24.95 | Sale: $22.46

Claré JC is a unique wine, G.D Vajra’s take on the forgotten days of Nebbiolo, when it was enjoyed in its lighter and fresher garment. The winemaking protocol follows the 1606 writings of G.B. Croce, jeweler of the House of Savoia: the wine is bottled soon after the fermentation so as to retain a gentle off-dry finish and a lovely energy. The 2021 Claré JC shows gorgeous cherry and Nebbiolo-skin tones on the nose and a slightly drier finish that will blossom with some time in the bottle.

100% nebbiolo