# Barolo Bricco delle Viole (2017)

- **Producer:** G.D. Vajra
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €85
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** violet, rose, cherry, plum, liquorice, cedar, cloves, leather, tobacco, tar

## About this wine

G.D. Vajra's Bricco delle Viole is one of the most celebrated single-vineyard Barolos. Perched at the highest elevation in the commune of Barolo, the vineyard sits opposite the Alps and benefits from abundant morning sun and cool mountain winds. Founded by Aldo Vaira in 1972, the estate remains family-run and is recognized for its commitment to classic winemaking, organic viticulture, and producing wines of incredible elegance, clarity, and longevity.

## Interesting facts

- Bricco delle Viole is the highest elevation cru vineyard in the village of Barolo, reaching up to 480 meters above sea level.
- The name translates to 'Hill of Violets', inspired by the wild spring flowers that bloom early on this high, warm slope.
- G.D. Vajra was among the earliest pioneers of organic viticulture in the Barolo region in the early 1970s.

## Food pairing

The pronounced tannins and high acidity of classic Barolo require dishes rich in proteins and fats to soften the astringency. Earthy elements like truffles, mushrooms, and aged cheeses complement Nebbiolo's savory complexity beautifully.

## Wine making process

Hand-harvested in late October, the grapes undergo long maceration and fermentation in traditional vertical wooden vats using indigenous yeasts. The extraction is kept gentle with submerged cap techniques lasting upwards of 30 to 40 days. The wine is then aged for approximately 30 to 42 months in large Slavonian oak casks (botti) to preserve fruit purity and terroir nuance before bottling.