2004 Sori San Lorenzo
By Gaja
2004 Sorì San Lorenzo, Piedmont, Italy
The 2004 Sorì San Lorenzo from Gaja stands out brilliantly in a sea of illustrious vintages. With its exuberant aromas and tactile elegance, this particular vintage proves why Gaja continues to be considered a cornerstone of fine wines from Italy.
Heralding a new chapter
For the seasoned connoisseur, the name Gaja elicits images of unparalleled excellence and unwavering commitment to quality. The 2004 Sorì San Lorenzo epitomises this, marking itself as an extraordinary addition to the portfolio of this leading wine investment management company. It acknowledges the producer's genius while carving out a distinct identity for itself.
Subtle yet significant climatic conditions marked the 2004 vintage as an exceptional year for Italy's noble vines. The temperate weather during the maturation period allowed for perfect ripening, delivering a result that underscores both power and finesse.
A tapestry of flavours
On pouring, the 2004 Sorì San Lorenzo reveals intense notes of black cherry and plums mingling with layers of fresh herbs and floral undertones. On the palate it graciously combines power, delicacy and complexity with grace — showcasing velvety Nebbiolo tannins structured subtly around core flavours of ripe dark fruits, liquorice and earthy mushrooms. Accompanied by an enduring finish that further highlights its superior quality and potential longevity.
Brimming with potential, the 2004 Sorì San Lorenzo holds pride of place for collectors focusing on fine wine investments. It reflects Piedmont's captivating terroir while showcasing Gaja's masterful approach to winemaking, ranking it amongst one of the intriguing fine Italian wines worthy of long-term cellaring.
2004 Sorì San Lorenzo: An enduring masterpiece
With each passing moment, this beautifully crafted 2004 Sorì San Lorenzo from Gaja continues its diligent march to true perfection. Its enchanting personality and robust character make it a valued addition to any connoisseur's collection, affirming its status as an outstanding investment wine with a performance that continues to fascinate.
Market price (GBP)
£4,150.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
230.56
Scores and tasting notes
The 2004 Sori San Lorenzo is a drop-dead gorgeous wine. It presents awesome balance, especially in the way it marries power with elegance. This is a remarkably refined and understated Sori San Lorenzo, with never-ending layers of dark raspberries, licorice, grilled herbs and tar that flow from its sumptuous frame. A dark, brooding beauty, it will require several additional years of bottle at a minimum, but those with the patience to wait will be amply rewarded. In most vintages I prefer the Sori Tildin, but in 2004 Sori San Lorenzo has a very slight edge over its sibling. It may very well be the finest Sori San Lorenzo since the legendary 1971. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. Angelo Gaja and long-time oenologist Guido Rivella produced some of the most monumental wines of their long, storied partnership in 2004. Although I admire Gaja’s wines, especially for their consistency, I rarely find them this emotionally moving and utterly profound. The stable weather and cool, tempering evenings towards the end of the growing season allowed Gaja and Rivella to harvest fairly late in 2004. I remember passing by Gaja’s Barbaresco vineyards in October of that year and seeing fruit still waiting to be picked long after most producers had already brought the fruit in. Gaja’s 2004s from Barbaresco are especially breathtaking for their clarity and precision. The wines also seem less internationally-styled than in the past. Readers fortunate enough to possess the means to acquire these wines won’t want to miss them! The 2003s from the Barolo zones of La Morra and Serralunga are also strong efforts considering the vintage. “Historically in Piedmont there has been an inverse relationship between quality and quantity. Great vintages like 1961 and 1989 were characterized by low yields,” says Gaja. “2004 is one of those rare vintages like 1964 and 1990 where quality is high even though yields were generous as well. I think 2004 is a very elegant vintage. It is much easier to achieve opulence in the wines, but finesse is always much more elusive.” Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2007