2008 Sori San Lorenzo
By Gaja
2008 Sorì San Lorenzo from Gaja, Piedmont
Many an esteemed palate has found joy in the deep ruby hues of the 2008 Sorì San Lorenzo from Gaja. A good old-fashioned lusty Italian hero, indeed, with a vibrant heart of fierce cherry and luscious plum. This, erm - knight, probably in rusting but decidedly charming late model armour - comes courtesy of the grand maestro of Barbaresco himself, Angelo Gaja.
A Dance of Complexity and Elegance
Born from a lively combination of strong limestone base and sandy topsoil, this vino is a testament to Gaja's tenacity in battling the discontented 2008 weather cycle. Under his meticulous care, conditions that would ruffle lesser vignerons were shaped into crafting a masterpiece representing the beautiful dance between complexity and elegance.
Immense depth is what you will find in the 2008 Sorì San Lorenzo. Bold layers unfurl with beautiful arrangements of dark berries enveloped by structured yet silky tannins which extend into a kindle of memorable toastiness. A seamless integration of fresh acidity and its signature mineral character elevates the wine's noble countenance.
The Harmony of Investment and Indulgence
For those seeking unique investment pieces with ageing potential, this is one to keep under consideration. Judicious cellaring will likely bring out the grandeur inherent in every drop, making it an attractive proposition for fine wine investors seeking prized liquid assets. The sheer charm and rarity of 2008 Sorì San Lorenzo makes it one of the iconic fine wines from Italy for investment.
The 2008 vintage shines as a testament to Gaja's unwavering commitment to quality even amidst adversity. An investment in this wine is an indulgence in a masterclass in poised power, generosity of flavour and admirable structure. As it matures, it only grows in desirability, offering the perfect combination of satisfaction and return on investment.
An extraordinary ambassador of its terroir, the 2008 Sorì San Lorenzo from Gaja holds a mirror to Piedmont's unique qualities. An enticing tapestry of deep Italian sophistication weaved with elements of ripe berries, plush spice, and bracing acidity bring intriguing complexity to this memorable year.
Market price (GBP)
£2,840.00
12x75cl
Highest score
95
POP score
189.33
Scores and tasting notes
Gaja’s 2008 Sori San Lorenzo is impeccable from start to finish. The 2008 is a round, seamless San Lorenzo with seemingly no hard edges and terrific overall balance. The signature aromas and flavors are there, as is the wine’s typical gravitas, yet the 2008 has an extra level of sweetness, its size notwithstanding. The wine possesses striking inner perfume and fabulous overall balance. The sheer excitement of the very finest years isn’t quite there, but this is a fine bottle just the same. An explosive, juicy finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. This is a stunning set of wines from Angelo Gaja and his team in Barbaresco. Those who think 2008 is a truly great year for Nebbiolo must have tasted these wines. In a vintage that is inconsistent across the villages of Barbaresco, Gaja has produced not one but four stellar wines. As fabulous as these wines are, they aren’t especially true to type, as I explain in these notes. The 2008s I tasted in the US showed far better than the bottles I tasted in Barbaresco during the summer. Perhaps the onset of the cool fall weather gave these wines a little more spine than they had during the sweltering heat of August. Readers who want to learn more about the 2011 harvest at Gaja may want to take a look at my video interview with Gaia Gaja and vineyard manager Giorgio Culasso. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2011