Dolcetto d’Alba DOC “Coste e Fossati” 2022 – G.D. Vajra

The grapes to produce the Dolcetto d’Alba DOC “Coste e Fossati” G.D. Vajra were harvested by hand during the second half of September, late by Dolcetto standards, and transported in small crates to keep the grapes intact. The careful selection of grape clusters started in the vineyard and was carried out with the same attention all the way to the cellar. Vinification lasted 15-20 days in vertical, custom-designed vats, at temperature below 31°C. Gentle punch-down and pump-overs were used to rinse the cap over the course of 16 days to add complexity and elegance. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation followed. The wine was then aged for seven months in stainless-steel tanks.

This Dolcetto is named after the two vineyards where the grapes come from, Coste di Vergne and Fossati, both in the township of Barolo with high altitudes ranging from 420 to 240 metres above sea level. Coste di Vergne has a south-western exposure while Fossati has a south-eastern exposure. These two vineyards share the soil composition characterised by Sant’Agata fossils and Messinian sediments.

Aldo Vaira’s wines are characterised by pristine flavours and clearly defined perfumes. These characters are attributable to the position of his vineyards at about 400 metres above sea level in the village of Vergne in the commune of Barolo. G.D. Vajra was established in 1972 and named after Aldo’s father, Giuseppe Domenico Vajra. Aldo has been gradually increasing the area under vine to 60 hectares, of which 10 are Nebbiolo for Barolo, located in such strategic spots as Bricco delle Viole, Fossati, La Volta and Coste di Vergne. A traditionalist, Aldo adheres to old-style winemaking methods, though blends these with new techniques, such as temperature-controlled fermentation, to produce such superbly elegant wines.