Angelo Gaja - Barbaresco 1997

Tasting note: Angelo Gaja Barbaresco 1997

(Piedmont, Italy; Nebbiolo)

General:
The Angelo Gaja Barbaresco 1997 epitomises the powerful elegance of one of Piedmont's most legendary vintages. 1997 was a hot, dry year that produced ripe, concentrated grapes - a challenge for the typical freshness of Nebbiolo. Angelo Gaja, a master of balance, nevertheless succeeded in creating a wine of structured depth and longevity. Today, over 25 years later, it presents itself as a mature, complex Barbaresco that combines the sunshine of the vintage with Burgundian finesse.

Appearance:
Deep garnet red with broad brick tones at the rim, a sign of its maturity. Slightly translucent at the core, with fine sediment and delicate, slow tears in the glass.

Nose:
An opulent, tertiary bouquet dominates: dried roses, truffle, leather and tobacco leaf. Underneath, mature aromas of plum jam, candied cherries and a smoky spiciness (roasted herbs, cedar wood) unfold. Subtle notes of balsamic vinegar, vanilla (from the moderate oak barrel) and damp forest floor emphasise the complexity.

Palate:
Medium to full-bodied with surprisingly lively acidity for the hot vintage, the tannins are silky, almost fully integrated, and carry flavours of dried figs, liquorice, autumn leaves and an earthy minerality (graphite, clay). The fruit appears mature but not overcooked - a sign of Gaja's controlled vinification. The balance between power and elegance is masterful.

Finish:
Long, sensual finish with notes of dark chocolate, tobacco and a salty, mineral character. The finish is warm, but structured by a cool line of acidity.

Maturation potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is at the peak of its development. It can last for years if stored optimally (cool, dark), but will gradually lose its freshness. Decant it 45-60 minutes before serving to separate sediments and harmonise the aromas.

Matching dishes:
Ideal accompaniments are truffle risotto, wild boar goulash, mature Castelmagno cheese or dark chocolate desserts. Also suitable as a meditation potion.

Rating:
A great, mature Barbaresco that translates the heat of the vintage into a fascinating balance of power and nuance. Gaja's genius is evident in its longevity despite the warm climate. ★★★★½ (95/100).

Tip:
The 1997 vintage in Piedmont is often hailed as a "modern" classic - ripe, approachable, yet age-worthy. Gaja's version surpasses many contemporaries with its freshness and structural precision, comparable to the best Barbarescos of the 1990s, but with its own sun-drenched personality. Bottles from cool cellars remain vital for longer, while those stored too warm can lose complexity.