# G.D. Vajra Organic Langhe Nebbiolo (2023)

- **Producer:** G.D. Vajra
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €46
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** rose, raspberry, mint, strawberry, cherry, violet, butter, wet stones, earth

## About this wine

The G.D. Vajra Organic Langhe Nebbiolo hails from the esteemed Langhe DOC appellation in Piedmont, Italy, a region synonymous with the Nebbiolo grape. Established in 1972, the family-run G.D. Vajra estate has a long-standing commitment to organic and sustainable viticulture, a philosophy embraced by founder Aldo Vaira since 1971. This wine is crafted to showcase the inherent purity and aromatic complexity of Nebbiolo, offering an elegant and approachable expression of the varietal. The grapes are sourced from the estate's younger vines, situated in high-elevation vineyard sites across Barolo, Novello, and Sinio, contributing to the wine's finesse.

## Interesting facts

- Aldo Vaira began organic farming in 1971, long before it was common.
- Grapes are hand-harvested in the early morning to preserve freshness.
- The wine is named 'Langhe Nebbiolo' to highlight its regional origin.
- It's considered an accessible entry point to Nebbiolo.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and fine, silky tannins are well-suited to complement the protein in red meats and game, preventing the wine from being overwhelmed. Its bright acidity can cut through richer dishes, while its aromatic profile can echo or contrast with herbs and earthy elements in the food.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for G.D. Vajra Organic Langhe Nebbiolo emphasizes a gentle and natural approach. Fermentation is carried out with indigenous yeasts in vertical vats over 15-20 days, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation. A key technique is the gentle and long maceration, designed to extract color and tannins while maintaining the wine's lift and energy. Aging occurs for 8 to 14 months, primarily in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness, with a small portion sometimes utilizing neutral oak casks. The grapes are hand-harvested in the early morning to maintain optimal fruit quality.