Viniou Reviews
The 1997 Gaja Sori Tildìn is a celebrated red from one of Italy’s most iconic producers, Angelo Gaja, based in the heart of Piedmont. Sori Tildìn is a single-vineyard cuvée crafted primarily from Nebbiolo, though Gaja is known to occasionally add a touch of Barbera for balance, heightening the wine’s vibrancy and structure. The wine hails from a particularly warm and favourable vintage, contributing to its intensity and generous fruit character. After meticulous selection in the vineyard, the grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation and extended maceration; the wine is then matured in oak barrels, lending polish to its powerful structure and complexity.
Piedmont, nestled in north-western Italy at the foot of the Alps, is renowned for its rolling hills, misty vineyards, and diverse terroirs. The Sori Tildìn vineyard lies within the Barbaresco zone, on south-facing slopes with calcareous clay and limestone soils, perfect for Nebbiolo’s demanding nature. The region’s continental climate, with cold winters and warm, dry summers, contributes to the slow, even ripening of grapes, essential for developing Nebbiolo’s aromatic complexity and firm tannins. Piedmont’s winemaking traditions date back centuries, and Gaja has played an instrumental role in elevating the region to its modern-day prestige.
Such a majestic wine deserves thoughtful food pairing. Its depth and aromatic range pair exquisitely with classic Piedmontese dishes such as brasato al Barolo (braised beef in red wine), tajarin al tartufo (egg-rich pasta with truffles), or wild game like venison or duck. Well-aged cheeses like Castelmagno or mature Parmigiano Reggiano also prove excellent companions. International classics such as slow-cooked lamb or porcini risotto highlight the wine’s finesse and earthy undertones.
For an optimal tasting experience, serve the 1997 Gaja Sori Tildìn at 17-18°C, allowing it to breathe for several hours before serving. Ideally, decant this mature wine to let its bouquet and texture fully express themselves. This will reveal a harmonious balance of fruit, savoury notes, and softened tannins, offering a vivid glimpse into the best of Barbaresco.
