Barbaresco Sori San Lorenzo

Gaja is one of the best-known wine producers in all of Italy. Originating in and still based in Barbaresco, in northwest Italy. Gaja name remains most strongly associated with Nebbiolo-based wines, though the company now makes more wine in Tuscany than Piedmont.  The business was founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja with just two hectares (five acres) of vineyards in Barbaresco. Each generation saw expansion, although Angelo Gaja, who took over full-time in 1970, is often credited with the estate's more recent success. 

Sori San Lorenzo is a vineyard bought from the parish of Alba in 1964, named after San Lorenzo, the patron saint of Alba's cathedral.

Dark-skinned berry, cigar box, a hint of menthol and a whiff of blue flower slowly take shape in the glass. Full bodied, with the firm's hallmark finesse, the smooth savory palate boasts succulent Morello cherry, raspberry compote, star anise, clove and crushed mint. It has great length and is impeccably balanced, with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity.