Why it matters
A family estate at the top of Barolo
G.D. Vajra is based in Vergne, the highest village in the commune of Barolo. Aldo Vajra built the estate while working as a schoolteacher and committed the family vineyards to certified organic farming in 1971.
Three of his children, Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro, now run the winery. Nebbiolo forms the spine of the range, joined by Barbera, Dolcetto and Moscato Bianco.
Place and vineyards
Vergne, between 350 and 400 metres
The family's vineyards sit between 350 and 400 metres above sea level. This cooler, upper reach of the Barolo zone pushes Nebbiolo's harvest later into autumn and helps the fruit retain acidity.
That high-altitude address runs through the estate's Langhe Nebbiolo and Barolo wines, giving them a clear point of origin even when the appellation changes.
Wines to know
From young Nebbiolo to Barolo
Claré J.C. is a young, unoaked Langhe Nebbiolo. Barolo Albe moves into the DOCG and brings together fruit from three Vergne vineyards. Moscato d'Asti offers a separate, lightly sparkling and low-alcohol side of the estate.
Dolcetto and Barbera complete the picture, but Nebbiolo remains the best thread to follow through the range.
A useful way in
Begin with Claré J.C.
Claré J.C. shows Nebbiolo from Vergne without extended ageing. Expect cherry, rose and a touch of earth, with lighter tannin than Barolo. It is the direct route into the family's high-altitude style before moving on to Barolo Albe.