Viniou Reviews
Gaja's 1982 Sorì San Lorenzo is an iconic expression of Piedmontese winemaking, rooted in exceptional craftsmanship and a deep respect for terroir. This wine is made predominantly from Nebbiolo, the signature grape of the region, sourced from the famed Sorì San Lorenzo vineyard in Barbaresco. The 1982 vintage benefitted from a classic growing season, allowing the fruit to develop profound complexity while retaining elegance. Vinification at Gaja is a meticulous process, with a combination of traditional and innovative techniques, such as fermentation in stainless steel and maturation in a mix of French and Slovenian oak, resulting in a wine that elegantly marries power, balance, and layered aromatics. In the glass, you can expect ethereal notes of dried rose, tar, truffle, and ripe cherry, with mature nuances of leather and spice owing to its impressive bottle age.
The Piedmont region, nestled in northwest Italy at the foot of the Alps, is revered for its unique combination of altitude, rolling hills, and calcareous soils, particularly suited to Nebbiolo. The continental climate with marked diurnal temperature shifts fosters slow grape ripening, leading to wines of great complexity and intensity. Historically, Piedmont is a land of tradition, where winegrowing is deeply interwoven with local culture and gastronomy, producing some of Italy’s most age-worthy reds.
Pairing this mature Sorì San Lorenzo calls for refined yet robust dishes that can stand up to its depth. Traditional Piedmontese cuisine is ideal; consider braised beef with Barolo (brasato al Barolo), wild mushroom risotto, truffle-infused pasta, or roasted game such as venison. Aged cheeses like Castelmagno or Taleggio will also complement its evolved, earthy profile.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 18-20°C. Decanting is strongly recommended, both to aerate the wine and to separate it from any natural sediment formed over decades of aging. This careful preparation will allow the wine’s complex bouquet and palate to unfold gracefully, making for an unforgettable tasting experience.
