Angelo Gaja - Barolo Sperss 2014

Introduction

Angelo Gaja Barolo Sperss 2014 is an outstanding wine from Piedmont that embodies the essence of the famous Barolo growing region. "Sperss" means "nostalgia" in the Piedmontese dialect and refers to Gaja's emotional attachment to the Serralunga d'Alba region. The 2014 vintage presented the winemakers with challenges, but Gaja succeeded in producing a remarkable wine.

Vintage 2014: Climatic conditions

• Cool, wet vintage with a late spring

• Challenging weather conditions during flowering and fruit set

• Dry, sunny September saved the harvest

• Late harvest at the end of October enabled optimal ripeness

Sensory analysis

Colour

• Deep garnet red with ruby red reflections

• Medium intensity

• Clear, lively appearance

Nose

• Primary aromas: cherries, plums, dried herbs

• Secondary aromas: vanilla, delicate roasted flavours from barrel ageing

• Tertiary aromas: development of earthy notes, truffle, fine tobacco leaves

• Complex range of flavours with mineral undertones

Palate

• Structure: Elegant tannins, silky integration

• Acidity: Lively, fresh, well balanced

• Body: Medium to full body

• Flavours: Repetition of the bouquet notes with additional hints of liquorice and dark chocolate

• Length: Long, persistent finish with mineral finesse

Grape variety and vinification

• 100% Nebbiolo from the Serralunga d'Alba zone

• Old vines (50 years old on average)

• Fermentation: In stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature

• Ageing: 12 months in barriques, a further 12 months in large wooden barrels

• Bottle ageing: At least 12 months before bottling

Drinking maturity and ageing potential

• Current: Still young, needs further bottle ageing

• Optimal drinking time: 2025-2040+

• Ageing potential: Excellent, until 2045+

Wine and food recommendation

• Classic pairing: Game dishes, truffle risotto, mature hard cheese

• Modern pairing: Mushroom ragout, lamb with herb crust

• Serving temperature: 18-20°C

• Decanting: Recommended (at least 2 hours before serving)

Reviews and awards

• James Suckling: 96 points - "Fantastic structure and length"

• Wine Spectator: 94 points - "Elegant and powerful at the same time"

• Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 95+ points - "A wine with great potential"

Specialities of the winery

• Innovative tradition: Gaja combines Piedmontese tradition with modern techniques

• Terroir focus: Strict selection of the best sites

• Sustainability: Respectful treatment of nature

Conclusion

The Angelo Gaja Barolo Sperss 2014 is excellent proof that great wines can be produced even in challenging vintages. Its elegance, complexity and mineral finesse make it a typical representative of the modern Barolo style. Despite the difficult weather conditions of the vintage, the wine shows remarkable concentration and promising ageing potential. A wine for connoisseurs and collectors that rewards patience.

Price range: Premium (approx. 250-350€ depending on source)
Recommendation: Highly recommended for lovers of structured, long-lasting red wines