2018 G.D. Vajra ‘Rosabella’ Rosato

Region: Piemonte < Italy

Grapes: 60% Nebbiolo, 20% Barbera and 20% Dolcetto

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: organic farming, 350-400m vineyards, no added SO2; ZERO-ZERO; 12% ABV

Winemaker: Giuseppe and Aldo Vajra

NEW VINTAGE ALERT: 2018 IS HERE! 

From this most traditional Barolo estate in the village of Vergne, the highest commune in Barolo, comes this pretty-in-pink summer gem. The Vajra family is one of the most respected in the region, and their Barolos outrank many of those that are more well-known. They farm organically – challenging in a region burdened by cool/wet weather, high land/grape prices and a ratings-driven market, all of which make organic farming difficult and economically risky. Thankfully Aldo and his wife, Milena, who have handed the reins of the estate to their children, this minimalist philosophy. The Rosabella is a case in point. No sulfur added? This in a region where not only being organic is rare, but sulfur use (or lack of) is not even a topic of discussion among locals. And OMG, this wine is incredible! Fresh cantaloupe and watermelon, with some sea salt, distinct minerality, and electric acidity, showing off the limestone soil.