G.D. Vajra Langhe Clare J.C. Nebbiolo 2025 - 750ml

93pts Kerin O'Keefe

A tribute the Nebbiolos of the 17th and 18th centuries, the accessible 2025 Claré J.C. is a delightful nectar with aromas of freshly pressed grapes, violet, citrus and star anise. Lighter-bodied than most of today's Nebbiolos from the Langhe, it's filled with personality, doling out ripe Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, candied orange zest and white pepper before a white almond finish. Crisp acidity keeps it bright while the gentle fizz, reminiscent of the wines from centuries ago, lends even more character. Chill it down for a refreshing and savory summer red.

Winemaker Notes

Bright ruby red color, with the typical hue of Nebbiolo. Suave fragrance on the nose, mountain berries, raspberry, purple-toned inner florals and cassis, a touch of licorice. The palate is enveloping, with just the lightest touch of fizz and a soft crunchy texture. Complex bouquet of orange peels, raspberries, fresh black cherry and a very lifted, refreshing finish.

About the Winery

The Vajra family has farmed Bricco delle Viole, the highest cru in Comune di Barolo, since the 1880s. At the young age of fifteen, Aldo Vajra embraced the dream to revive his family legacy. Displaying a vision and commitment belying his young age he took over the estate in 1968, turning a new page. Aldo soon acquired the first organic certification of the region (1971), created private biotype selections (selezioni massali) of Nebbiolo and Dolcetto, pioneered the renaissance of Freisa, a noble yet forgotten local grape (1980) and the cultivation of Rhine Riesling in Piemonte (1985).

Today, the Vajra family continues the vineyard research focusing on the influence of soil and climate change. The winery is trail-blazing the rediscovery of Chiaretto di Nebbiolo and the wines of the 17th century – long before Barolo was created - through two limited-production wines: “N.S. della Neve” (a champagne-method rosé nature) and “Claré JC”, a partial whole-cluster fermentation of pure Nebbiolo.

High elevation vineyards are a unique factor to the Vajra wines, for their ability to express finesse and remarkable complexity over power. Attention to details and humility towards the nature, uncompromised efforts and humanity: so are Aldo and Milena, now joined by their energetic children Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro, and by an amazing team of young professionals, in their quest for an authentic expression of their land into the wines. G.D. Vajra is an independent winery, entirely family-owned.