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Hi everyone –

Our most popular and successful exclusive offer was in 2022, with the wines of G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana. The stars have aligned again, and we can offer a fantastic lineup of top-level Barolos, plus one of the hardest-to-find rosé wines of the year.

This is something special, and if you’re a fan of fine wine and building a great wine collection, this is for you.

Let’s get to it!

About G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana

These are two of my favorite Barolo labels, produced by Giuseppe Vajra. They are classic wines, showing all the personality you expect from top-level Barolos: age-worthiness, detail, finesse, power, dried fruits, leather, licorice, graphite, and so much more. Each of these wines is a top-level Barolo that will make you happy.

G.D. Vajra is a young winery that is only in its second generation. In 1968, young Aldo Viara (the family was spelling their name with an “i” at the time) was a rebellious young man in Torino. He joined the counterculture movement and the protests that were happening worldwide at the time. His parents wanted him to have no part of “the scene,” so they sent him to his Grandparents’ farm in Barolo for a summer of work. He was 15 years old.

Take note that Piedmont, in general, and Barolo, in particular, was a very poor area in 1968. The post-WWII economy was still a wreck, and families were abandoning farms due to a lack of income (sad but true).

Young Aldo was put to work in the vineyards, far away from the protests in Torino and his friends.

But during that summer, something magical happened. He fell in love with the land, the vines, the world of Barolo, and the wines. Within a few years, he was working on his agricultural degree and soon took over the estate — as a teenager!

His counterculture spirit brought new ideas to this old land, the most important of which was an insistence on organic farming. G.D. Vajra was the very first to embrace organic farming in the region, and soon, this hippie teenager was getting attention from the locals (they thought he was crazy).

As the demand for Barolo started to grow exponentially in the 1980s and 1990s, Aldo was able to continue experimentations, including developing his own selections of vine material, planting ‘lesser’ grapes such as Fresia on prime Barolo property, and even being the first to plant Riesling in the area (their Riesling is off the hook good if you can find it).

Now, Aldo and his wife Milena’s three children—Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro—are taking over the company, maintaining their family tradition.

In 2008, Aldo approached Luigi Baunada about purchasing his business and property. Luigi was getting up in years, and had no heirs. Aldo loved the property and the traditions that Luigi had, and wanted to preserve it … label and everything. Aldo Vajra became the custodian of the Baunada legacy, and the wines are still made from the old Baunada vineyards and at the Luigi Baunada winemaking facility.

This “winemaking facility” on the Baunada estate is one of the smallest in Barolo. It’s literally a small room in the house, with a couple of tanks and a few large barrels. Only three lightbulbs illuminate the room. Note that the Luigi Baudana label is entirely from 2.6ha of vineyards, with a total production of under 800 cases.

The opportunity: A range of vineyards, a range of vintages.

We have 12 wines here! Don’t worry – I’ll step you through them. Eleven Barolos and one amazing rosé.

Before I get into vintage details, let me share my opinion regarding vintages. This is controversial, and I get a lot of shit from parts of the wine community because of this, but I’m holding to it.

In top-level wine regions such as Barolo, there is rarely such thing as a “good” vintage vs. a “bad” vintage. It’s just a vintage, with its own personality and whether it fits an individual’s personal taste. And if you love wine, you WANT the vintage to show in the glass.

Here’s a story …

In 1997, Barolo had an incredibly hot vintage resulting in ripe fruit, higher sugars, more alcohol, and big flavors. The locals, especially the traditionalists, didn’t like it. But lo and behold, Wine Spectator gave that vintage 100 points, called it perfect, and the vintage of the century. It sold like hotcakes in the USA.

1998 came along, and it was much cooler. Longer hang times. Less ripening. Lower alcohol levels. Wine Spectator rated the vintage quite low. But you know who loved it? The old timers in Piedmont, who said it was a return to what a great Barolo vintage is all about.

And guess which vintage aged better? To this day, 1998 (as well as 1996) Barolos are some of my favorites in my cellar.

So look to each vintage for its own personality, which should be reflected in the wine, rather than asking “which is better” because better is in the eye of the beholder.

Let’s break down the vintage details for you.

2018

Early spring rains and high humidity set a path toward mildew problems, but a warm growing season kicked in and led to an excellent harvest. The harvest occurred for many producers in October, a throwback to the old days, with perfectly ripe fruit and great acids due to the cool nights. The resulting wines are very age-worthy, similar in structure to the legendary 1996 vintage. 2018 was a bountiful year, with yields back to normal after the short production of 2017.

Note we only have two wines in this offer from 2018, and they are both extremely limited.

So, more attention should be paid to the 2019 and 2020 notes below.

2019

A classic, top-quality, “return to the old style” vintage. From Wine Searcher: “Now comes 2019, a year that was praised as a triumph almost immediately after the grapes were harvested; while early predictions are sometimes not entirely accurate, it is evident that the 2019 Barolos are indeed something special, with producers describing the vintage in lofty, even superior terms. From the classic Barolos blended from several sites to the commune wines, and all the way up to the greatest cru, Barolo 2019 will clearly be labeled as a remarkable year.”

I’m SUPER EXCITED about the 2019’s.

2020

What’s beautiful about 2020 is its approachability. It’s a vintage of fine tannins, elegant style, and ready-to-drink wines. Don’t be fooled … this is not an ‘off’ vintage as some would have you believe. I’ve had plenty of 2020s that have blown me away in their detail and precision, showcasing a fantastic ability to show off at an early age. I liken it to the musical prodigies you hear on Minnesota Public Radio. “At 10 years old, she was playing with the Boston Symphony…” From Decanter: “The 2020 growing season in Barolo was hot, but tempered by occurrences of rain and a beneficial lack of heat spikes. Many good wines have been made – as the high scores show – but take heed if you’re looking for longer-term cellaring options.”

In other words, this is a great vintage to buy and enjoy while your 2019’s are hanging out in the cellar. Compared to 2019, I’m equally excited about the 2020’s but for different reasons. This is why this offer is so much fun.

The Barolos of Luigi Baunada

In this offer, there are three wines (Baudana, Cerretta, and Serralunga). Each has a distinctive personality and each is incredible. These are tiny production wines from the smallest cellar in all of Barolo.

Luigi Baudana, Baudana Vineyard

This is incredibly special stuff and if there is anything to jump on in this offer, it’s this wine. You have a great opportunity to get both the 2019 and 2020 vintage.

From VineyardRoad.com:

Baudana — a hidden gem — is really known only among Barolo aficionados. Just three single-vineyard bottlings are made from this cru, and Luigi Baudana may well be the only one exported to the United States. Baudana is the name of the vineyard, of the village, and of Luigi and Fiorina’s family. Their roots run deep, and the family’s legacy is important to this unique place.

https://vineyardroad.net/producers/luigi-baudana/

2019 Baudana — 96 points Jeb Dunnik: “The 2019 Barolo Baudana is flush with ripe red and black cherry, pressed flowers, and vibrant purity and depth. It is potent with blood orange, and it has a rich, firm structure that is ripe with turned earth, crushed rocks, and saline. It is a fully structured red with a long finish. Drink 2026 and over the following two or more decades.”

Luigi Baunada, Cerretta Vineyard

Cerretta is a tiny little hamlet on the way to the town of Serralunga and is also the name of a coveted vineyard parcel where the Luigi Baunada Cerretta is produced from under one acre of vines.

Yes, under one acre. In other words, this is as rare as you can find. Only a small amount of cases came to the United States. To be able to tap into a vertical of Cerretta is unheard of.

The 2020 Luigi Baunada Cerretta earned 96 points from Jeb Dunnik, and 95 points from Wine Spectator.

2020 Cerretta — 95 points Wine Spectator: “A beam of pure cherry leads off, along with strawberry, licorice, tar and menthol flavors. Supple yet firm, with terrific balance and a long, tightly wound finish, revealing fruit, mineral and wild scrub notes. This is all about the texture. Best from 2027 through 2045.”

Luigi Baunada “Serralunga” Barolo

Serralunga is one of my favorite towns and regions within Barolo. It’s a tiny little hamlet with charming old streets, a tall ancient tower, and amazing views in every direction.

It’s an area known for well-structured wines due to the particular soils of the area, resulting in firm tannins and aging potential.

These are powerful wines, wines of place, that really show off the top quality of the Barolos of Serralunga.

The Luigi Baudana Barolo Serralunga is one of the most consistent Barolos out there and a relative bargain in the world of Barolo. You can expect textbook Barolo aromas of rose petals, graphite, dried red fruits, and worn leather.

Again, a rare opportunity to have both the 2019 and 2020 vintages in your wine rack.

2019 Serralunga — 94 points Wine Enthusiast: “Aromas of mixed berry fruits, both fresh and preserved, along with notes of orange citrus, create an elegant and pure expression on the palate. The wine achieves a beautiful balance between fruit and savory elements with notes of cherry, rosebud, bay leaf and allspice. Super pretty and polished tannins make it enjoyable now–2040.”

2020 Serralunga — 94 points Wine Enthusiast: “This Barolo exudes an alluring and enigmatic aroma highlighted by black cherry and warmed black currants accompanied by notes of black pepper, licorice root, anise, and fennel. The wine’s nose is a captivating kaleidoscope, with fruit, herbs and earthy notes each taking their turn with every swirl of the glass. On the palate, it is mouth-filling and rich, yet structured, with notes of plum and black raspberry enveloped by firm tannins and a pronounced earthy quality that begs to be paired with roasted meats, mushrooms, or umami-focused dishes. This wine is a true embodiment of the powerful and age-worthy Barolo wines that have made Serralunga d’Alba famous. Drink Now – 2045”

The Barolos of G.D. VAJRA

G.D. Vajra “Ravera” Barolo

“The Barolo Vineyard that suddenly everyone is clamoring for.” – Opening a Bottle. See article here: https://www.openingabottle.com/a-vineyards-story-barolos-ravera/

This vineyard, along with the Bricco della Viole mentioned below, are the future of Barolo. They are vineyards that traditionally have made “austere” wines, meaning with less ripeness that the famed direct-south facing crus. As Barolo has been warming up, these vineyards that are a bit out of the heat and direct sunlight are making some of the most compelling wines in the area.

Learn more here: https://barolowineclub.com/italian-wine-tips/ravera-barolo-top-cru

2018 Ravera — 94 points Wine Advocate: “Seamlessly stitched together, the G.D. Vajra 2018 Barolo Ravera reveals tight layering and smooth texture. Fruit comes from an amphitheater of vines with Tortoniana epoch sandstone clay that is typical of parts of Barolo and Novello. What stands out here is the mineral character of the wine. It frames a dark core of plum, dark cherry and soft spice”

2020 Ravera — 97 points Wine Enthusiast: “The Ravera cru, one of the estate’s prized holdings, is known for its calcareous soil and old vines that contribute to the wine’s depth and ageability. This Barolo showcases crushed raspberries and red currants intertwined with wild thyme and fresh laurel. Subtle notes of cinchona bark, whole cinnamon, and fresh porcini add complexity. On the palate, warmed mixed berry jam is dusted with crushed cloves, pepper, and earthy hints of truffle and underbrush. Fine and elegant tannins provide structure, while the well-balanced warmth envelops the senses like a comforting hug. Drink Now – 2045”

G.D. Vajra “Coste di Rose” Barolo 2020

Note: only two bottles available.

2020 Coste di Rose — 94 points Wine Enthusiast: “A Barolo of remarkable elegance and complexity. Lifted aromas of mixed wild berries, candied rose petals, cinnamon, and whole clove, are accompanied by warm, earthy notes. Tart cherries and cranberries dominate the palate, with woodsy undertones and chewy tannins that provide heft without overpowering. Savory and medicinal herbs linger on the finish, making this a captivating expression of this renowned cru. Drink Now – 2045”

G.D. Vajra “Bricco della Viole” Barolo

This is one of the crown jewels of Barolo.

It’s the highest elevation vineyard in the area, and thus a distinctive microclimate making it stand head and shoulders above other wines (pun intended).

From the producer’s website:

Among the historical vineyards of Barolo, Bricco delle Viole is the highest and the closest to the Alps. It rises from 400 to 480 meters above the sea level, on the Western ridge of the village. Its name, “Hill of Violets”, originates by the flowers that here blossom early due to the perfect south exposure. Up above the fogs, Bricco delle Viole enjoys the earliest sunrise and the last sunset every day. Thanks to its vines dating back to 1949, a dramatic diuturnal temperature range and this pure light, Bricco delle Viole generates a sophisticated and profound Barolo of bright aromatics, chiselled tannins and subtle minerality.

http://www.gdvajra.it/uploads/public/874_fs-bobv14-en.pdf

Typical descriptors of Vajra’s Bricco delle Viole include elegant, detailed, purfumed, and polished. This vineyard is far away from Serralunga, which we discussed with the Baudana wines, and thus brings more of the elegant side of Barolo to the equation. Those that love Burgundy will love this wine.

2018 Bricco delle Viole — 95 points Wine Advocate: “The 2018 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is not super intense, but it is balanced in its own way. The wine is subdued but complete with softly yielding tannins to support an elegantly streamlined mouthfeel. Bricco delle Viole is a high and cool growing site in Barolo at 400 to 480 meters in elevation with characteristic Sant’Agata marl soils with fossils. The wine represents a selection of fruit from over seven hectares. With fermentation in steel tank and aging in large Slavonian oak, you are invited to a silky, lifted and beautifully delicate experience with an accessible personality.”

2020 Bricco delle Viole — 98 points Jeb Dunnick: “A ripe ruby color, the 2020 Barolo Bricco Delle Viole is incredible on the nose. Initially lightly smoky on opening, it needs a little time to reveal notes of candied roses, wild raspberries, tea leaf, and sweet sage. Medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannins, a balanced, compact nature, and a velvety texture, it is nicely concentrated, yet with a weightless feel. This is one of the most complete wines I’ve tasted from Vjara to date. It has depth, but with a defined feel, and is long on the palate, with an exceptional finish. It’s going to have a wide drinking window but age at a very slow rate over the next two to three decades.”

The 2024 Vajra “Rosabella” Rosé

I’m not going to say too much about this wine, other than this: it may be the best rosé of the year. Only 12 bottles are available on this offer. 56 cases came to Minnesota, and it was instantly allocated then sold out at the wholesaler. You can find it around town at the best wine shops, and if you see it, buy it. First come, first served on our 12 bottles.

Buying advice

This is exactly the kind of offer we love to present. A deep dive into the importer’s warehouse, finding gems that are usually unavailable.

Prices on Barolo are going nowhere but up. The discounted prices on these gems and the range of vintages represent a special moment. Take advantage of it.

Inventory is extremely limited.

More buying advice

Luigi Baudana wines will be fuller-bodied and bigger than the G.D. Vajra.

The G.D. Vajra wines will be more elegant and detailed.

All will age exceptionally well, especially those from 2019.

The 2020’s are showing incredibly well right now, and will be awesome for 10-15 years to come. It’s a special and distinct vintage.

Each of these wines speaks to what Barolo is best known for: distinctive and characteristic aromas, elegance with amazing power, and captivating details that can only develop with time. There is nothing quite as grand as Barolo!

If you only buy one, two, or three bottles

If you buy one bottle, buy the Baudana Serralunga 2019 or 2020.

If you buy two bottles, add G.D. Vajra Ravera 2020.

If you buy three bottles, add the Baudana Baudana 2020.

Happy shopping.

Jason Kallsen
Sommelier and founder/owner of Twin Cities Wine Education

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Offer and special pricing are available as inventory lasts