Barbaresco 2004

Made from only Nebbiolo grapes. Among Angelo Gaja’s many wines I continue to consider his Barbaresco to be his most authentic and consistent red. This was particularly true of this 2004, a very good year. The wine’s garnet color had a good intensity and the aromas were typical, linear and elegant with scents of licorice, tobacco and violet along with smoked notes just noticeable in the background. The mouthfeel was harmonious, with an almost salty acidity nicely held in check by the extracts. The tannins were just a tad dusty and distinct thanks to the wine’s relative youth and it is easy to see how the wine will improve with another three years in the bottle. The finish had a good persistence without any bitterness.