G.D. Vajra Luigi Baudana Barolo Cerretta 2020

Luigi Baudana is one of the smallest estates in Barolo, just 2.6 hectares in Serralunga d'Alba, now farmed by the three G.D. Vajra siblings with respect for the original project. This Barolo comes from the Cerretta vineyard, planted in the 1970s on the pale, calcareous loam soils that mark Serralunga's eastern ridge. These soils, high in active limestone and low in clay, give Serralunga Nebbiolo its reputation for power, structure and long ageing. A wide diurnal range over the growing season holds acidity and fixes the grape's perfume of rose and tar. The wine ages 32 months in large foudres, where measured oxygen exchange across the old wood rounds the tannins and integrates the fruit without imposing new-oak character. The colour is pale garnet. The nose is savoury and lifted, with red cherry, dried rose, liquorice and tobacco. The palate is full and tightly structured, the tannins firm and chalky, framed by high acidity that carries an earthy, mineral finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant well ahead, in a large glass. It suits braised meats, game and mushroom dishes.