“The Albe may be the single best value in Barolo today.” Antonio Galloni, Vinous

"If you were to consider the entire portfolio of wines made in the Barolo appellation, this wine always stands in its own little corner. Albe is a brand on its own, and it represents one of the most versatile, accessible and well-priced Baroli to emerge from the appellation." Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

Vajra Barolo Albe 2016

Sale $89.89 for Magnum (1.5L) - Beats the BEST US Price Online

94 pts Wine Advocate / 94 pts Wine Enthusiast / 94 pts Wine Spectator

Vajra's Barolo Albe is our top-selling Barolo of all time - and it isn't even close! Sales are more than 3 times the next selling Barolo. Heck, this Barolo is our top-selling wine from the entire Piedmont region of Italy. Not just in dollars, but in bottles, which is saying something when you consider all of the inexpensive Barbera we sell. Let's just take a quick peak at all of Italy... wow! #2 all-time by $ volume!!! That's incredible! 

So what's the secret? Well, for starters, the fruit for the Albe Barolo comes from three different vineyards Coste di Vergne, Fossati and La Volta, each with a different sun exposure and microclimate. This allows for the Vajra family to blend a wine that is consistently outstanding. Then, stylistically, they aim for a wine that is more approachable in youth than their single-vineyard offerings. But with the spectacular 2016 vintage, they may have made their finest yet! They've pulled back a little from the up-front ripeness and accessibility, crafting a wine that still has immediate appeal, but will give more reward with cellaring. Oh... let's say drink from 2021-2032. 
 

“If you were to consider the entire portfolio of wines made in the Barolo appellation, this wine always stands in its own little corner. Albe is a brand on its own, and it represents one of the most versatile, accessible and well-priced Baroli to emerge from the appellation. The G.D. Vajra 2016 Barolo Albe sets off on the right foot, offering forthcoming intensity with forest fruit, wild cherry, crushed stone and blue flowers. Winemaking is straightforward in stainless steel, and the wine finishes in Slavonian oak casks.” - WA

“Aromas of woodland berry, new leather, camphor and pressed rose waft out of the glass. Juicy and delicious, the chewy palate doles out succulent Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry and white pepper. Polished tannins and fresh acidity give it an immediate appeal but this also offers several years of drinking pleasure. Drink through 2028.” - WS

“Elegant and expressive, this red evokes cherry, raspberry and floral notes, aligned to a refined structure. This is balanced and leaves an aftertaste of fruit, tobacco and iron. Best from 2023 through 2043.” – WE

Keep in mind that this is a highly regarded vintage that will reward those with the patience to hide some of these away for a few years. There are loads of tannins in this firmly structured wine. While this bodes well for the life expectancy of the wine, don’t be afraid to drink this now. We've sure enjoyed it! Just give it a little air while you prep up your feast. A young Barolo like this is great with Brasato al Barolo (beef braised in red wine. click the pic for a recipe.) You really can’t go wrong with any beef or lamb, but a porcini risotto is a personal favorite that really brings out the subtleties of this beautiful bottle.


Reply to order. Arrives Friday in both stores, as ordered.