Gaja Sito Moresco Langhe Rosso 2021

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja in Barbaresco, Piedmont, Gaja is a family-owned winery renowned for its pioneering role in modernizing Italian winemaking. Under the leadership of Angelo Gaja, the estate introduced innovative techniques, including the use of barriques and single-vineyard bottlings, elevating the global reputation of Italian wines. Today, Gaja continues to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards in Piedmont and Tuscany.

Producer and Winemaker

Angelo Gaja, the fourth-generation winemaker, has been instrumental in transforming Gaja into a symbol of Italian wine excellence. His commitment to quality and innovation has led to the production of wines that balance tradition with modernity. Angelo’s children, Gaia, Rossana, and Giovanni, are now actively involved in the winery, ensuring the continuation of the family’s legacy.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Sito Moresco are sourced from vineyards in Barbaresco and Treiso, as well as Serralunga d’Alba in the Barolo appellation. These sites feature calcareous marl soils and benefit from a continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variations. The 2021 growing season began with a severe and rainy winter, followed by a dry spring that accelerated the vines’ life cycle. However, cold temperatures in early April affected some lower-lying vineyards. The summer brought heat and occasional thunderstorms, requiring diligent vineyard management to counter powdery mildew. A refreshing rainfall in late August provided much-needed balance, resulting in ripe, healthy grapes for harvest. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Each grape variety is vinified separately to preserve its unique characteristics. Fermentation and maceration last approximately three weeks, followed by blending after malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 12 months in oak barrels, ensuring a seamless integration of flavors and structure. 

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Sito Moresco exhibits a beautiful violet color atypical of Nebbiolo but reflective of the vintage’s richness. The nose offers bold notes of blackberry, cherry, blood orange, and bergamot with a touch of flintiness. On the palate, the wine is medium-structured with lots of juiciness and harmony, leading to well-balanced acidity and tannin structure with a long finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile red pairs well with grilled meats, rich pasta dishes, and aged cheeses. Its balanced acidity and tannins complement dishes like beef tenderloin, lamb chops, mushroom risotto, and hard cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F) in large, tulip-shaped red wine glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can help open up its bouquet and enhance its flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2021 vintage is approachable now but will benefit from 5 to 7 years of cellaring, during which it will develop additional complexity and depth.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

85% Nebbiolo, 10% Barbera, 5% Merlot 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 95 points (2020 vintage)

• Natalie MacLean: 93 points