G. D. Vajra Barolo 'ravera' 2016
Winery: G. D. Vajra
SKU# 39228
Varietal: Nebbiolo
Region: Piedmont
Size: 750 ml
Rating: 96 Points - James Suckling
96 Points - Vinous
Retail Price: $89.99
Notes & Flavors
Ravera is situated at the confluence of two different geological matrices. Over millions of years the layers were superimposed, creating a rather fragile soil subject to erosion, but with an enormous potential. Predominance of Sant’Agata fossil marl, interspersed with sand deposits rich in iron. Average elevation: 360 m a.s.l.
Picking starts around October 9th. Thanks to an ideal balance of ripening, maceration lasts 45 days, 5 days with a submerged cap. The malolactic fermentation occurs in steel in spring following the harvest.
Aged for 30 months in Slavonian oak casks of 30hL before bottling.
96 Points, James Suckling
"The boldest of the G.D. Vajra crus. The nose has very intense, rich and ripe darker cherries with a savory, sanguine edge. The palate has layer upon layer of rich dark berries and concentrated, quite rich tannins that carry plenty of brambly dark-cherry flavor. So keenly defined, too. Impressive weight."
96 Points, Vinous
"The 2016 Barolo Ravera is tough as nails today, but it has striking inner sweetness and remarkable persistence. Even so, readers will have to exercise a great deal of patience, as the 2016 is not likely to offer much in the way of pleasure for a number of years. Bright red cherry, mint, white pepper, blood orange and dried flowers give the 2016 brilliant top notes to match its finely sculpted feel. Veins of acidy and tannin add razor-sharp precision throughout. I can't wait to taste this in another few years' time."
96 Points, Wine Enthusiast
"Focused and vibrant, this chiseled red has enticing scents of small red berry, rose, menthol and culinary spice. On the taut, youthfully austere palate, a backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins supports juicy red cherry, strawberry and licorice while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Give it time to unwind and come together."
95 Points, Wine Advocate
"The 2016 Barolo Ravera is the most angular, powerful and vertical of the various Baroli presented by G.D. Vajra. The optimal growing conditions of this classic vintage contribute to the wine's vertical lift and pronounced depth. The Ravera cru (that spans the comuni of Novello and Barolo) is characterized by Toronian-era marl with clay and sandstone at 320 to 340 meters above sea level. That's the ideal spot for wines that show both power and elegance. The tannins are sweeter on this wine, but the fiber is tight and firm. Red and purple fruits with licorice, tar and white truffle are folded neatly within."