2015 Gaja Costa Russi Barbaresco DOCG

Few wineries evoke excellence and artistry the way the Gaja family name does. To utter these two simple syllables is to call forth one of the greatest and most venerated traditions in European winemaking. To mention this family and its wines is to summon an icon and touchstone of Italian viticulture. Costa Russi was acquired by Gaja in 1967 and is named for the nickname of the former owner. With spectacular positioning for extended sunshine, this wine is considered one of the finest gems in the portfolio. 

The Gaja family landed in Piemonte from Spain in the 17th century. Following WWII, Giovanni Gaja acquired large vineyard holdings in the area. His son, Angelo, is considered one of the pioneers of modern winemaking in Italy. After studying wine in Montpellier, he was one of the first to bring French techniques such as barrique barrel aging, malolactic fermentation, and modern technical innovations. Yet, he continued to implement extended macerations following fermentation. By raising the level and recognition of Nebbiolo, Angelo Gaja has been commended by every major wine publication in the world and acknowledged as an innovator. Today, his two daughters Gaia and Rossana manage the extensive land holdings and global distribution of this important brand.

Ageing: 24 months in Oak Barrels

The Costa Russi nose is generous, floral, and sweet with intense aromas of rose and violet, blood orange, red berries, liquorice and turmeric. The palate is fleshy, loaded with red and dark berry notes, such as mulberry, red currant, black cherry. The soft and round tannins balance the good acidity.

Wow. Such depth in the nose of strawberries, flowers, and hints of raw meat. Crushed stones, too. Full body, fine and dusty tannins, and a long and flavorful finish. Shows structure and finesse. Drink in 2020. ~97 James Suckling

The 2015 Barbaresco Costa Russi is once again striking in 2015. Vertical and lifted, with tremendous energy, the 2015 has so much to offer. Once the most easygoing of the three Barbaresco crus, Costa Russi has inched up in quality in recent years. The 2015 shows the suave mid-palate and raciness that is so typical of this wine, and yet it also has much more obvious structural underpinnings than once was the case. I can't wait to see how it ages. ~96 Antonio Galloni

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