94pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Offering a level of aromatic clarity and elegance that is not always easy for this grape, the G.D. Vajra 2022 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Viola delle Viole has beautiful aromas of earthy iris, gentle oak spice, toasted allspice and a very ripe or soft quality of fruit. It all balances out smoothly to the senses. The tannins are tucked softly within that texture to good effect, giving support but no harshness. This is a well-made Superiore with both intensity and balance.
Tasting Notes
The 2022 Barbera d’Alba Superiore has a striking balance between energy and textural richness. The bouquet opens with violet flowers, candied wild blackberries and sweet spices. Fresh plum, menthol and balsamic notes on the palate, which is enhanced by a filigrane of tannins and by its long, lingering finish.
Winemaker Notes
Our Barbera d’Alba DOC Superiore is the selection of the most
heroic estate vines. Grown on steep slopes, rooted in limestone, these vines yield
a tiny if beautiful crop. The fruit, here, is characterized by small berries, thick skins and fragrant flavors.
About the Winery
In 1971, Aldo Vajra, then still a university student, was one of the earliest to adopt organic farming in Piemonte. Vineyards have been nurtured, and soil preserved, by grassing and spontaneous cover crop for almost 50 years now. They are sustainable and organic certified. With an incredible ratio of manual work per hectare, farming at Vajra is a labor of love and “recipe-free” attention. Intense research is also placed into monitoring and improving the biodiversity of both flora and fauna not just in the vineyards, but also in the winery fields and forests.
Grape Varietal: 100% Barbera
