GAJA
PIEDMONT, ITALY
Why Buy: You could make a pretty compelling argument that the 2020 Sperss Barolo and the 2021 Costa Russi Barbaresco are two of the wines not just of their respective vintages, but are two of the most extraordinary wines on the market right now, period. And we're proud to have secured allocations of these insta-classic collectibles.
The Formats: In a nod to both immediate gratification and long-term cellaring, we're pleased to offer all of these wines in 1.5 L magnums. The larger format not only makes for an impressive addition to any cellar, but also allows for more gradual, nuanced aging.
Our Tasting Notes: The 2020 Sperss Barolo is a wine of profound depth and nuance. It opens with a beguiling bouquet of wild berries, violets, and hints of truffle. On the palate, it's a study in contrasts — powerful yet elegant, rich yet vibrant. The tannins, while formidable, are expertly woven into the fabric of the wine, promising decades of evolution in the cellar. The 2021 Costa Russi, from Barbaresco, is a more ethereal expression. It dances on the palate with notes of red cherry, rose petal, and a hint of white pepper. The wine's acidity provides a brilliant tension, while the finish unfolds like a peacock's tail. The Conteisa Barolo 2020 is a silk tapestry of flavors, weaving together succulent red fruits with delicate spices. Its refined texture caresses the palate, while a subtle mineral undercurrent provides captivating complexity, culminating in a finish that lingers like a fading sunset. GAJA's audacious Cabernet statement, the 2021 Darmagi, is a bold brushstroke of Bordelais influence on a Piedmontese canvas. Layers of ripe blackcurrant and aromatic cedar intertwine with hints of graphite and wild herbs, all supported by a framework of firm yet surprisingly supple tannins that promise years of elegant evolution. The two yet-to-be-rated wines are keepers as well: the 2021 Sori San Lorenzo brings its typical muscular intensity of dark fruit and licorice, while the 2021 Sori Tildin whispers of red fruits and flowers with graceful persistence. And each, as always, carries the distinct stamp of Piedmont's terroir.
The Bottlings: To understand the blend of tradition and innovation at the heart of the GAJA operation, look no further than the Sperss Barolo: sourced from the Marenca-Rivette vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba, it undergoes fermentation in stainless steel, followed by malolactic fermentation and aging in oak for 30 months. This meticulous process, a hallmark of GAJA's approach, results in wines of extraordinary complexity and aging potential. The Darmagi, GAJA's audacious foray into Cabernet Sauvignon, exemplifies the estate's willingness to challenge conventions. Planted in 1978 against patriarch Giovanni Gaja's wishes (hence the name: "what a pity," in Piedmontese dialect), it has evolved into a wine that marries Bordelais structure with unmistakable Langhe character.
The Story: The GAJA saga is, by now, a well-worn classic, a tale of visionary risk-taking and unswerving commitment to quality. Angelo Gaja, the estate's pioneering force, has long been a figure of both controversy and admiration in the wine world. His bold innovations — from the use of French oak barriques to the introduction of single-vineyard bottlings — initially drew skepticism and even hostility from traditionalists. Yet time has more than vindicated his unorthodox approach, with many of his once-radical techniques now standard practice in vineyard after vineyard across Italy. Under Angelo's guidance, and now with the involvement of his children Gaia, Rossana, and Giovanni, GAJA has expanded beyond its Piedmontese roots, establishing estates in Tuscany and Sicily. Yet, the core philosophy remains unchanged: an uncompromising pursuit of quality and a profound respect for terroir.
Fun Fact: GAJA's commitment to innovation extends beyond winemaking. In 2021, it became the first Italian estate to join the "Porto Protocol," a global initiative to combat climate change. As part of this commitment, GAJA has implemented a range of sustainable practices, including the use of solar energy, water recycling, and biodiversity promotion in its vineyards.
Our Guarantee: Because pristine provenance is of the utmost importance to us, these wines come directly from the estate. Your bottles will arrive in pristine condition, ready for your cellar — or your glass.
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Spring 2025. With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, KY, MI, MO, NY & TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024.