Angelo Gaja - Barbaresco 1996

Tasting note: Angelo Gaja Barbaresco 1996

(Piedmont, Italy; Nebbiolo; 13.5-14% alcohol)

General:
The Angelo Gaja Barbaresco 1996 is a masterpiece from one of Piedmont's greatest vintages. The year 1996 brought cool temperatures and long periods of ripening, which resulted in structured, acid-accentuated Nebbiolos with exceptional ageing potential. Angelo Gaja, a pioneer of modern Barbaresco, combines traditional knowledge of the terroir with innovative precision. The wine embodies the perfect symbiosis of powerful depth and Burgundian finesse - a classic that crowns its maturity after almost three decades.

Appearance:
Deep garnet red with broad, mahogany-coloured reflections on the rim. Slight translucency in the centre, accompanied by fine sediment and delicate, slow tears in the glass. The colour reveals its maturity, with no signs of fatigue.

Nose:
A complex, tertiary-dominated bouquet: dried rose petals, truffle, old leather and tobacco leaf. Underneath, subtle notes of preserved cherry, plum jam and wild berries resonate. Refined spice of cedar wood, clove and a mineral character (iron, damp slate). Slight hints of balsamic vinegar and dried herbs (thyme) complete the picture.

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied with lively acidity that gives the wine youthful freshness. The tannins are silky, almost fully integrated, and carry aromas of autumn leaves, dried fig, liquorice and an earthy spiciness (mushrooms, humus). The balance between powerful structure and elegant lightness is masterful. Subtle notes of bitter almond and smoke emphasise the complexity.

Finish:
Long, multi-faceted finish with an emphasis on salty minerality, tobacco and a smoky bitterness reminiscent of dark chocolate. The finish remains cool and precise - a sign of the chalky soils of the Barbaresco terroir.

Ageing potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is at the peak of its development, but still has potential for 5-8 years with optimal storage (12-14 °C, dark) thanks to its acid structure. Decant 1-2 hours before serving to separate sediments and allow the flavours to develop.

Suitable dishes:
Ideal accompaniments are truffle risotto, game dishes (venison fillet with porcini mushrooms), brasato al Barolo or mature pecorino. Also an experience as a contemplative solo wine.

Rating:
A timeless Barbaresco that epitomises the brilliance of the 1996 vintage and Gaja's visionary vinification. Powerful, yet always elegant - a wine of world champion class. ★★★★★ (96/100).

Tip:
The 1996 vintage in Piedmont is one of the longest-lived of the 1990s. Gaja's Barbaresco surpasses many contemporaries with its freshness and depth. Bottles from cool, dark cellars often show youthful vitality, while improperly stored examples can lose complexity. Comparable to the great Barbarescos of the 1970s, but with modern precision.