2014 Barbaresco DOCG
By Gaja
2014 Barbaresco DOCG from Gaja, Piedmont, Italy
The finest examples of any wine are those that encapsulate not just the variety and skill of the winemaker, but also the spirit of their vintage. The 2014 Barbaresco DOCG from Gaja not only bears the unmistakable signature of this renowned producer, but it also uniquely encapsulates the climatic twists and topographical turns of its birth year.
A Vintage that Proved the Mettle
In 2014, Gaja was tested by an unusually cool and wet summer, which prompted a late harvest yet rendered exceptional acid profiles in their crop. This intensely poised vintage from one of Italy's most revered producers unequivocally demonstrates that superb terroir and inexorable dedication can coax brilliance from even the most capricious weather conditions.
Exuding an alluring complexity the 2014 Barbaresco DOCG captivates with delicate floral notes that gracefully counterbalance underlying hints of earthy truffle. The palpable tension between bold Nebbiolo character and refined elegance reveals itself upon tasting.
A Wine Reveling in its Singular Disposition
Gaja's 2014 Barbaresco DOCG unfolds with arresting layers as aromas of dried rose, cherry and exotic spice lead to a palate marked by taut tannins. The finish resonates with a subtle minerality and clinching acidity that are distinctly characteristic of this challenging vintage.
In terms of investing in fine wines from Italy, this 2014 Barbaresco DOCG suggests immense holding power, with potential to evolve splendidly over years. A testament to Gaja's indomitable spirit in a demanding year, this singular wine truly stands as a beacon of resilience and reward for savvy investors.
An Investment Aged to Perfection
In conclusion, the 2014 Barbaresco DOCG from Gaja illustrates the strength of seasoned winemaking prowess intertwined with an unpredictable climatic narrative. As a piece of liquid history from one of Italy's top producers, this wine is not only a worthy acquisition for any discerning collector but also a unique opportunity for investors seeking diverse, robust offerings in their portfolio.
Market price (GBP)
£1,600.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
114.29
Scores and tasting notes
Gaia Gaja tells me 2014 was one of the best vintages ever in Barbaresco, if not the best for her vineyards. She cites the prolonged growing season that continued at a slow rate during the cooler summer months only to speed up thanks to a heat spell at the very end, right before harvest. Nebbiolo loves slow maturity and a prolonged growth cycle: The 2014 vintage did indeed get off to an exceptionally slow start. The 2014 Barbaresco is not austere or astringent. Instead, it offers plump ripeness with rich fruit flavors backed by spice, licorice and tobacco. The wine offers good structure from the point of view of its tannins, yet there is no harshness or bitterness whatsoever.
Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 30 June 2017