Rosé of Nebbiolo, G.D. Vajra 'Rosabella'

The Vajras, one of the first families of the Barolo region of the Langhe approach their production of Rosato with the same seriousness and meticulousness as they do their iconic reds. At this exalted address, Rosé is far more than the afterthought it is at so many other places. The Vajra Vino Rosato, named Rosabella, after their Bella Mama Rosa, is made with a lighter touch by bleeding tanks of primarily organically-farmed, younger vine Nebbiolo, but also Dolcetto and Barbera, and fermenting that juice separately. Kept cool throughout the process to preserve its freshness and vibrancy, it’s always one of the more delicate and charming dry pinks each year and 2024, thanks to having extra material with which to work, has produced the best version of this wine we’ve ever tasted. Not a ‘big’ Pink in any sense of the word, it’s particularly fragrant with tart cherry, cherry pit, red raspberry, rhubarb and a hint of wild strawberry, the finish is pure mineral with a nice bit of linger at the end. With its light touch and airy pink color, we love it as an aperitivo but it would segue nicely to a platter of smoked meat or fish, an herby salad or any other lighter nibbles you can think of! A very dry and thoroughly charming Rosato from the Langhe hills.