Viniou Reviews
Gaja's Sorì San Lorenzo Nebbiolo d'Alba 1990 is a remarkable testament to the finesse and age-worthiness of Piedmontese Nebbiolo. This vintage, now boasting over three decades of evolution, is crafted predominantly from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from the iconic Sorì San Lorenzo vineyard. The wine’s lengthy maturation in both oak and bottle has yielded profound complexity—a mix of dried rose petals, truffle, earthy underbrush, and hints of dark cherry, leather, and tobacco. The inherent power of Nebbiolo is harmoniously balanced by elegant tannins and vibrant acidity, characteristic of Angelo Gaja’s precise vinification style. The 1990 vintage, marked by optimal ripening and classic concentration, shines through the wine’s persistent finish and graceful integration.
The Piedmont region, nestled in the north-west of Italy at the foot of the Alps, is celebrated for its cool, continental climate and complex soils rich in clay, limestone, and veins of blue marl. These elements provide the ideal conditions for Nebbiolo, a grape famed for its aromatic depth and structural intensity. Nebbiolo d'Alba lies between the renowned Barolo and Barbaresco areas, benefiting from both prominent diurnal shifts and centuries of winemaking tradition. The region's passionate commitment to expressing terroir and respect for tradition underpin its enduring reputation as one of Italy’s finest vinicultural heartlands.
Pairings for such an esteemed Nebbiolo should respect its complexity and maturity. Classic Piedmontese dishes such as braised beef with Barolo, wild mushroom risotto, or Tajarin pasta with white truffle complement the wine’s earthy and savoury profile. Rich game, roasted lamb, or mature cheeses like Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano also make superb accompaniments, allowing the wine’s tertiary notes to shine.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine gently for at least an hour to help it express its intricate bouquet and soften any remaining tannins. Serve at a temperature between 17-18°C, which will best reveal its layers of aroma and flavour. This is a wine to savour slowly, ideally in good company, to fully appreciate its depth and pedigree.
