Gaja Barbaresco Costa Russi 2020

Costa Russi is a southwest-facing plot in Barbaresco, part of Gaja's trio of named Langhe vineyards in Piedmont. Sitting at around 230 metres on soils of loam, lime carbonate and clay, it ripens Nebbiolo steadily through a long autumn, while the older vines, about 65 years of age, give low yields of concentrated, finely detailed fruit. The limestone content is what lends Nebbiolo from here its lift and its silky tannic line. The grapes are picked by hand, fermented and then aged in oak, where measured oxygen exchange softens the structure and folds the tannins into a fine, polished grain. The 2020 is pale garnet. The nose is fragrant and precise, leading with fresh rose and vibrant red cherry and raspberry, with hints of tar, sweet spice and a balsamic note. The palate is medium to full bodied, the ultra-fine tannins gliding across the mouth and the acidity keeping the long finish bright and savoury. It already drinks beautifully and will hold for years. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, in a large glass. Pair with roast beef, game birds and mushroom dishes.