Viniou Reviews
Gaja’s 1982 Sorì San Lorenzo Nebbiolo d’Alba is a benchmark for Piedmontese excellence and a true reflection of the region's winemaking heritage. This iconic red, crafted by the revered Angelo Gaja, is produced from 100% Nebbiolo grapes drawn from the single-vineyard Sorì San Lorenzo, located in the commune of Barbaresco. 1982 was a memorable vintage in Piedmont, offering wines with both structure and elegance due to ideal growing conditions and a balanced harvest. The wine is vinified traditionally, with extended maceration on the skins to extract fine tannins and complex aromas, then matured in both large casks and smaller barriques to ensure finesse and longevity. Now, after decades in bottle, you can expect an exquisite bouquet of dried roses, tar, wild berries, truffle, and earthy forest floor, with secondary and tertiary nuances of leather, tobacco and anise.
The Piedmont region, nestled in north-western Italy, is defined by its rolling hills, cooling Alpine breezes, and layers of calcareous clay and limestone soils. This terroir gifts Nebbiolo with its hallmark perfume, bright acidity, and firm, age-worthy tannins. The climate is relatively cool but benefits from significant diurnal temperature variation, enabling grapes to ripen slowly and develop complexity while retaining vibrancy. Piedmont’s storied history of viticulture and its focus on quality over quantity have earned its reds a legendary status among collectors and connoisseurs.
Given the mature and complex profile of this Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo, food pairings should be equally refined and flavourful. Classic Piedmontese dishes shine: try slow-braised veal cheek with Barolo sauce, agnolotti del plin stuffed with roasted meats, or wild mushroom risotto. The wine’s earthy character also finds resonance with game birds, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and black truffle-based recipes.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine gently at least an hour before serving to allow it to fully express its bouquet. Serve at 17-18°C to showcase its aromatic depth and elegant texture. Such a vintage Gaja is a rare treat—savour it in good company and on a special occasion.
