A Whole Bunch Wines Guide to G.D. Vajra
It's the Whole Bunch Wines Guide to G.D. Vajra. Piedmont are responsible for some of the world's finest wines and we couldn't be a respectable wine merchant without serving up some top tier vino from this fabulous region.
G.D. Vajra are a top producer and we stock a number of options, but let's tell you a bit more about the people behind the wine.
The History of G.D Vajra
G.D. Vajra are a family owned winery that operate out of the small village of Bergne, just to the west of the world renowned Barolo. They also have 10 hectares in that fabled Barolo region.
Head honcho Aldo's grandparents bought the land back in the 1920s, however it would be some time before Aldo found his home on the family vineyard. In 1968, he was part of a student protest that marched past his father's office in Turin. Aldo's grandfather was shocked and sent him to the farm in Barolo, away from 'revolutionary ideas'. If it was intended as a punishment, I struggle to see why...
The real shock came the next Summer, when Aldo returned to Turin. Now, he was a farmer. However, that forward-thinking 'revolutionary' bent was still there. In 1972, he converted to organic farming. This was a real departure from much of Italian viticulture at that time. Today, Aldo and his wife have been joined by their children. Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro are all integral parts of the G.D. Vajra institution.
Photo Courtesy of https://www.gdvajra.it/en/homepage
The Vines and Wines of G.D Vajra
The vineyards are typical of the Piedmont wine region. The soils are rich in local marl, (a type of clay). They are known locally as Fossati, Coste di Vergne, La Volta and Bricco delle Viole. Altitude is crucial. It helps to provide cooling, which is also bolstered by the rolling Piedmont fog.
Vines sit at around 270 and 480 metres of altitude which preserves the acidity which is crucial in not simply the white wine of the regions, but the red wines. Dolcetto is a low acid grape so it is vital to preserve what little it possesses. Barbera is a really light and fresh wine which needs that acidity to keep the freshness. Finally, the famous Barolo which is crafted from the Nebbiolo grape variety. These wines are tannic, so acidity plays a crucial role in providing balance.
All in all, vine placement is crucial as each grape variety is extremely different. So, they have to ensure each grape is treated in such a way as to create the perfect wine.
What Do We Stock...
Whole Bunch Wines is proud to stock a few different examples of G.D. Vajra wines. If you love fine Italian wine, then keep reading for some delicious tipples.
G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo [£35]
- This is made from the exact same grape variety so, fans of Barolo should check this elegant and beautifully crafted wine out! Perfumed and powerful, yet with a palpable and persistent acidity. It typifies everything you'd want from a good Barolo. You'll get hit with aromas of rose, tar and leather right off the bat, before these give way to intense notes of strawberry, raspberry and red cherry. Read More
G.D. Vajra Barbera d'Alba [£33.50]
- Next up, the light and lively Barbera d'Alba. Fresh with notes of red berries, rose and fresh plums. Crisp, juicy and packed with notes of warm spice and sweet red and black cherries. Read More
G.D. Vajra Dolcetto d'Alba [£26]
- G. D. Vajra Dolcetto d'Alba has a lively deep purple colour. The nose opens with tones of wild berries, mulberry, hints of white pepper and sweet spices and fresh thyme. The palate is bursting with blueberries and fresh plums, with a refreshing acidity that makes it a great accompaniment to food. The finish is elegant with a lovely note of almonds. Read More
Don't Miss Out!
Make sure to check out our wine tastings and monthly wine club, if you want to try great wines like the ones mentioned in this blog post. Links below:
- Manchester Wine Tastings & Events
- Sauce Subscription (Monthly Wine Club)