Sori Tildin Nebbiolo DOC 2010 1.5 L A.Gaja

Gaia Gaja uses the word “salty” to describe this next wine, and I see her point. The 2010 Sori Tildin shows a dry, firmly structured quality that enhances those extraordinary, breezy overtones of lead pencil and brimstone that so fittingly frame the Nebbiolo grape. The lingering end-notes of rose petal, ginger and cedar are striking. You immediately feel the tannic structure and power of the wine. The jump is very sharp next to the Costa Russi, and that’s why this is one of Gaja’s best cellar-agers. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040. 

 Just a short while ago, in the midst of one of Italy’s darkest political hours when forming a functioning government seemed like an exercise in futility, someone sent me a Facebook petition proposing Angelo Gaja as a candidate for President of the Republic of Italy. Although Angelo himself would brush it off as jest, that seedling of a (good) idea took the Internet by firestorm. What he has demonstrated over the years, besides from his infectious enthusiasm and keen ability to communicate his thoughts with brilliant clarity and gumption, is a natural ability for leadership. Barbaresco is lucky to have an Angelo Gaja, the Langhe is lucky to have him, and Italy is, too.

Wow. Impressive, complex aromas of lilacs and dried strawberries, with hints of flower stems. Full body with focused, polished tannins. It draws you to the centre palate of the wine and seems to last forever. Makes you want to drink it now but will be better still in 2016.

Displaying plenty of cherry, raspberry and floral notes, this is well-structured and balanced, with hints of sweet spices gracing the finish. Very expressive now, showing the potential to age. Juicy and long. Best from 2016 through 2029. 500 cases made.

Good full medium red. Subtly complex aromas of redcurrant, strawberry, graphite, mocha and spices. Seriously deep and fine-grained, with dazzling mid-palate minerality energizing the wine's fruit and drawing out the finish. Outstanding balance and vinosity here. The very long finish leaves behind a sexy smoky quality. This warm site can be tough for these low-vigor vines in a hot year but this wine is sensational in 2010.