Viniou Reviews
Gaja Sori San Lorenzo 1995 is an iconic red wine hailing from one of Italy’s most esteemed producers, Angelo Gaja. The wine is crafted predominantly from Nebbiolo grapes, sourced from the celebrated Sori San Lorenzo vineyard, situated near Barbaresco in the heart of Piedmont. The 1995 vintage stands as a testament to the region’s cool yet favourable climatic conditions that year, resulting in wines with both structure and elegance. This cuvée is vinified with great precision: after traditional fermentation, it undergoes extended ageing in oak barriques, lending the finished wine both depth of flavour and impressive age-worthiness. In the glass, expect an intense ruby hue, with a bouquet marked by dark cherry, violets, tobacco and leather, seasoned with notes of licorice and truffle, which are typical of mature Nebbiolo.
The Piedmont region, anchored in north-western Italy at the foothills of the Alps, boasts a unique microclimate where warm days and cool nights encourage balanced ripening. The soils, rich in limestone and clay, are perfectly suited to Nebbiolo, providing both finesse and a distinctive mineral backbone. Historically, Piedmont has been famed for producing some of the world’s most revered reds, and the heritage of winemaking in this region stretches back centuries. Gaja, in particular, has played a pivotal role in modernising and elevating Piedmontese wines onto the world stage.
Given the complexity and power of Sori San Lorenzo, it shines when paired with rich, flavourful dishes. Traditional Piedmontese cuisine is a natural match; think of braised beef cheek in Barolo, wild mushroom risotto, or roasted game birds. Mature hard cheeses, such as aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Taleggio, also complement the earthy notes of the wine beautifully. For something indulgent, try white truffle-infused pasta—a nod to the famous truffles of Alba.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine at least one hour prior to serving, as this will allow its bouquet to open fully and the tannins to soften. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to appreciate all the nuances and grace of this remarkable vintage.
