2013 Barbaresco
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2013 Barbaresco is fabulous. In fact, this is one of the best Barbarescos I have tasted at Gaja in many years. Vibrant, perfumed and beautifully sculpted in the glass, the 2013 possesses tons of understated intensity. Sweet red cherry, mint, white pepper and anise are all lifted in the glass. The 2013 is an almost shockingly classic Barbaresco from Gaja. The translucent color, vibrant Nebbiolo fruit and austere but noble tannins represent a move towards a much more traditional style. For readers who can find it, the 2013 is simply a must-have wine. Oct 2016, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2023-2043
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The Gaja 2013 Barbaresco is a toned and elegant wine with a very impactful and focused bouquet. Dark fruit nuances segue seamlessly to spice, grilled herb, tar, licorice and leather. In keeping with that trademark Gaja touch, those transitions feel polished, long and smooth. The pleasure factor is high on this wine, thanks to the robust concentration it offers and the beautifully velvety nature of its texture. Gaia Gaja tells me that she and her family are especially happy with the quality of tannins achieved in this vintage. They do indeed show a noticeable level of succulence and proverbial crunch. Jun 2016, www.robertparker.com
A return to the DOCG and hence 100% Nebbiolo. Only just mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Really holding back on the nose. Cool, a little sleek and rather austere on the palate for the moment. Bags of tannins and noticeable oak hints. Not for immediate consumption. Ugly-duckling state, no doubt there is more to come. Oct 2016, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2018-2028
Medium ruby color. Extremely aromatic with rose petal, strawberry and stone character. Medium to full body. Ultra-fine tannins. Hints of walnut. Super long finish. A wine that is a joy to drink now but will reward you even more in four or five years and onwards. Oct 2016, www.jamessuckling.com
About the producer
Gaja has been at the forefront of the Piedmont wine scene for many years and is Barbaresco’s most decorated producer. The winery has received a record number of Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri awards – the highest accolade from Italy’s leading wine publication.