The Vajra family began in the 1960s and 1970s to focus on old vine genetics with mass selection. The vineyards are managed with organic and biodynamic practices that do not follow any dogma but have proven themselves in their own terroirs through experience. Learning by doing.

The cellar work is rather traditional, meaning with long maceration times with partial use of whole grapes and fermentations without technical control. The wines therefore need a certain aging time due to their structure – like all classic great Barolos – to digest the powerful structure. Thanks to their aromatic depth, they then develop into an elegant expression strength that can last for decades. However, with the Albe, the Azienda has a very chic, exceptionally fine Barolo for entry in the program, which, with its playful nature and a development completely without wood contact, is accessible early and shortens the waiting time for the single vineyards Coste di Rose and Ravera. Despite their classic style, the wines are beautifully playful and fragrant, with lively cherry and berry fruit that bursts with energy and terroir expression.

Galloni attests to the wines a "razor-sharp precision," which Suckling complements with praise for the breathtaking structure. Elegance and power at the same time. Vajra stands for a timeless beautiful Barolo culture and has made the breakthrough into the phalanx of top producers with the extraterrestrial 2016 vintage, thus also entering my selection. Also belonging to this is the ultra-classic micro-project Luigi Baudana, which is also run by Vajra. It is pure Serralunga terroir, more limestone and sandstone, more power, predominantly in the famous location Cerretta. Completely different, distinctly more masculine and even more classic Barolo in the historical style, as it is vinified independently in this separate small winery.