G.D. Vajra 2022 Barolo 'Albe'

"A blend of three crus, and usually the most reserved of the Barolo bottlings from Vajra, the 2022 'Albe'is immediately expressive with an aromatic profile centering on plump red cherries and fresh orange peel. Complexifying notions of sweet Virginian tobacco, balsam herbs, conifer and sous bois from same, and goji berry wreathe through and around the edges of the red-fruit centred nose. The palate, though open knit, has a pleasingly planar 'muting' that occurs in the second-half; even in the warm and dry year the team at Vajra have turned out a classical Barolo. Red cherry, dried cranberry, candied peel at the centre enlivened by mint and crushed chalk. Most alluring. The finish is mineral and laced in ore. Fine." — David