2009 GD VAJRA LANGHE ROSSO - MONEY'S TOO TIGHT TO MENTION

Barolo stands as one of the world’s most evocative wines. The classic ‘tar and roses’ character one associates with Barolo sums up the wine; perfumed, feminine and ethereal yet with power, structure and impact. For many, enjoying Barolo (or Barbaresco) is not realistic due to the substantial financial outlay and/o extended cellaring required to render the wine’s tannic framework supple and silken.

For those looking for Barolo, or should we say and authentic Piedmontese red wine on a budget, there are options in the form of Langhe Nebbiolo and Langhe Rosso. Leading Piedment producer GD Vajra’s Langhe Rosso blends together the Piedmontese trio of Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, with a touch of Pinot Noir added for good measure. The result is a wine that is true to its origin, with an attractive aromatic nose of red fruit, tar and tobacco. While it by no means possesses the power or complexity of a great Barolo or Barbaresco, it delivers on authenticity and is well suited to food of the region. It is a dry, savoury wine that is best enjoyed in its flush of youth.

2009 LANGHE ROSSO
Producer: GD Vajra
Variety: Nebbiolo (blended with Barbera, Dolcetto and Pinot Noir)
Vintage: 2009
Region: Piedmont, Italy
ABV: 13.0%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: $32.00
Date tasted: 1 April 2013

Tasting Note:
Bright garnet fading toward the rim. Quite a complex and inviting nose; cherry, damson, tar, tobacco and aniseed. Dry, savoury and medium bodied, somewhat more straightforward on the palate – sour cherry. Gentle tannins. Finishes with mouthwatering acidity. Very much a food style. Very solid.
Score: 16/20