# Gaja Darmagi Langhe DOP (2019)

- **Producer:** Gaja
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €420
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, black cherry, blackberry, blackcurrant, cedar, chocolate, vanilla, cloves, mushroom, earth, tobacco, leather

## About this wine

Gaja Darmagi Langhe DOP is a red wine from the Gaja winery in Piedmont, Italy. The wine is primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The Darmagi vineyard, planted in 1978 in Barbaresco, is situated at 280 meters above sea level on clay and silt soils. The name 'Darmagi' translates to 'What a pity' in the local dialect, reflecting the initial sentiment towards planting international varietals in a region known for Nebbiolo. This wine represents Gaja's innovative approach and belief in the potential of international grapes in Piedmont.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Darmagi' means 'What a pity' in Piedmontese dialect.
- Planted in 1978, Darmagi was one of the first post-phylloxera Cabernet Sauvignon plantings in Piedmont.
- The vineyard is located in the heart of Barbaresco village.
- The wine is named after Angelo Gaja's father's initial reaction to planting Cabernet Sauvignon.

## Food pairing

The full body and structured tannins of Darmagi are well-suited to complement the richness and protein found in red meats and game. The wine's inherent complexity can echo the earthy notes of mushrooms and the savory depth of slow-cooked dishes.

## Wine making process

Gaja Darmagi Langhe DOP is produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes grown in the Darmagi vineyard in Barbaresco. The grapes undergo fermentation and maceration for approximately three weeks in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 24 months in oak barrels, with some indications of further aging in Slovenian oak vats. The wine is bottled unfiltered.