Sorì San Lorenzo (1971)

About this wine

The 1971 Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo Barbaresco presents a captivating bouquet of dried cherries, tobacco, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of mature red fruit flavors, complemented by hints of leather and subtle spice. The wine's structure is well-integrated, with softened tannins and a lingering finish that reflects its age. Notably, this vintage was among the early single-vineyard bottlings of Nebbiolo in Piedmont, marking a significant moment in the region's winemaking history. The vineyard's name, 'Sorì San Lorenzo,' refers to its south-facing hillside location and honors the patron saint of Alba's cathedral.

About the grape

The 1971 Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo Barbaresco is primarily crafted from Nebbiolo grapes, a variety renowned for its complex flavors and aging potential. In this vintage, a small percentage of Barbera was blended with Nebbiolo, a traditional practice aimed at balancing acidity and enhancing the wine's overall harmony. This combination reflects the innovative approach of the Gaja winery during that era, blending tradition with modern techniques to produce distinctive wines.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1971 Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo was among the early single-vineyard Nebbiolo wines in Piedmont, highlighting the unique terroir of the San Lorenzo vineyard.
• ⛪ The term 'Sorì' in Piedmontese dialect refers to a hilltop with southern exposure, ideal for grape ripening, while 'San Lorenzo' is named after Alba's patron saint.
• 🏞️ In 1964, the Gaja family purchased the San Lorenzo vineyard from the Alba church, marking a significant expansion of their estate.
• 🍒 The 1971 vintage of Sorì San Lorenzo is noted for its maturity, offering aromas of sweet tobacco, mint, pine, licorice, and dried cherries.
• 🪵 Initially, Sorì San Lorenzo was aged entirely in large casks, with French oak barriques introduced in 1968, reflecting Gaja's innovative approach to winemaking.

Palate profile

Producer

Gaja, established in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja in Barbaresco, Italy, has been a pioneering force in winemaking for over 160 years. The Gaja family, originally from Spain, settled in Piedmont in the 17th century and began producing wines that would later gain international acclaim. Angelo Gaja, the founder's great-grandson, revolutionized Italian viticulture by introducing practices such as single-vineyard bottlings, the use of barriques, and the cultivation of international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Under his leadership, Gaja expanded beyond Piedmont, acquiring estates in Tuscany's Montalcino and Bolgheri regions, further solidifying its reputation for excellence. Today, the winery remains family-owned, with Angelo's children continuing the legacy of innovation and quality.