Gaja - Costa Russi Langhe-Barbaresco 2021

ID:
• Origin: Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG
• Grape variety: 100% Nebbiolo
• Alcohol percentage: 14.0%
• Style: Elegant, complex, rich yet refined
• Aging potential: Now until 2045+
• Rating: 97/100 Vinous – 96/100 Wine Advocate

The Costa Russi 2021 is a deeply structured yet refined Nebbiolo that expresses the character of this historic cru terroir with great precision. On the nose, the wine shows aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, violets and subtle mineral notes, interwoven with elegant spices.

On the palate, it is layered and energetic, supported by fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. The balance between ripe fruit, floral tension and mineral freshness is impressive.

The long, clean finish is characterized by red fruit, spices and a subtle chalky accent.

Vinification.
The grapes are harvested entirely by hand and meticulously selected. After gentle crushing, temperature-controlled fermentation follows with a relatively long maceration to obtain aromatic depth and a fine tannin structure. The wine ages for approximately 12 months in barriques, followed by about 12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, after which it rests for several months in bottle before commercialization.

The estate.
Gaja was founded in 1859 and grew into one of Italy's most influential wineries. Generation after generation, the family emphasized quality, terroir expression, and sustainability. From the 1960s onwards, Angelo Gaja introduced numerous innovations, such as lower yields, precise selection, and refined winemaking techniques.

Sustainable viticulture is a cornerstone of their philosophy: no herbicides, protection of biodiversity, careful water management, and minimal intervention in the cellar. Costa Russi is one of the estate's most prestigious crus and is cultivated with the utmost precision.