The name Gaja is no stranger to wine lovers. Based in Barbaresco, Piedmont, in the northwest Italy, Angelo Gaja is widely known for not only revolutionizing the reputation and winemaking practices of Piedmont, but also of Italy as a whole. He was also instrumental in introducing Italian wines to the international markets. Though Gaja is famous for its forward-thinking moves, the estate was, in fact, founded more than 160 years ago with just 2 hectares of vineyards in Barbaresco. Now the vineyard holdings have expanded to Tuscany and Sicily, producing a wide range of wines based on both local and international grape varieties.
I love the layers of complexity and long length that are common in Gaja’s wines. Although they make beautiful wines based on international grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, it is their classic Nebbiolo based wines from Piedmont that are closest to my heart. I recommend their flagship Barbaresco bottling for its sensual aromas of dark and red fruits, mineral notes and bright acidity. 2005 is drinking beautifully now with fine tannins.
Conteisa means "quarrel" in Piedmontese and it was named as such for the fight between the communes of La Morra and Barolo for the top vineyard land of Cerequio. Conteisa is a full-bodied and intense Barolo that takes time to mature. Our selection of Conteisa 1998 is perfect to open now, for its expressive notes of red fruits, sweet spices, violet scents and refined tannins.
Last but not least in our Gaja selection is the gorgeous Sperss, meaning “nostalgia” in Piedmontese. The Sperss vineyard is in the commune of Serralunga and is a powerful and concentrated wine. We have three vintages on offer, showcasing different stages of maturity and characters. I love Sperss for its rich texture, firm tannins and a wide range of fruit notes that are versatile with different styles of pizzas, rich pastas and hearty meat dishes.
I invite you to explore our selection below.
