G.D. Vajra
2023
Dogliani, Monterustico
View details →£24.20
The SommPills Cellar
G.D. Vajra
1 wine on the G.D. Vajra shelf, chosen one at a time.
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G.D. Vajra
1 wines on the shelf
G.D. Vajra is a family-run Piedmont producer based in Vergne, on the western edge of Barolo, where Aldo Vaira has been making wines since 1972. What sets them apart is a four-decade commitment to organic viticulture at a time when it was unconventional—a philosophy that remains central to every bottle. With 20 hectares of prime vineyard land, including the exceptional high-altitude site Bricco delle Viole, G.D. Vajra produces Barolo, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera that balance ripe fruit with ageing potential and food-friendly structure. If you want Piedmont wines rooted in genuine terroir and sustainable practice, not trend, G.D. Vajra delivers.
About G.D. Vajra
Aldo Vaira's journey to winemaking began unexpectedly in 1968 when student protests redirected him to his family's farm in Vergne for the summer. That summer changed everything: he committed to becoming a farmer, studied agriculture at university, and began planting and tending vineyards while still a student. In 1972, at just 22, Aldo made his first vintage—which happened to be one of the worst years of the 20th century for Barolo. No commercial Barolo was produced that year, but Aldo remained undeterred. He taught viticulture to earn his living while his wines matured, and slowly expanded the family holdings across the western Barolo zone.
Today, Aldo and his wife Milena work alongside their three children: Giuseppe manages the winery, Francesca handles administration and hospitality, and Isidoro works with Aldo to oversee the vineyards. The estate encompasses 20 hectares of carefully tended Barolo land across five parcels of particular distinction: Coste di Rose and Coste di Vergne, along with Ravera, Fossati, and La Volta, each contributing singular character to the portfolio. Their flagship site, Bricco delle Viole, sits above 400 metres elevation. The westerly exposure and mountain breezes create a unique microclimate: cool air and morning and evening sun combine to produce wines that are scented yet ripe, supple yet built for the cellar.
Organic viticulture has been the foundation since day one—radical in 1972, now proven. This approach shapes every decision in the vineyard and winery, and it shows in wines that taste of place rather than intervention. Whether you're buying their elegant Dolcetto d'Alba for immediate pleasure or their structured Barolo for cellaring, you're getting fruit grown and made with genuine respect for the land.
G.D. Vajra Wines in Our Collection
The range spans Piedmont's greatest grapes. Start with the 2025 Dolcetto d'Alba (94 pts) or 2025 Coste e Fossati Dolcetto d'Alba (94 pts, 4.2 Vivino) for a light, perfumed introduction—perfect for weeknight meals and worth keeping on hand. The 2025 Langhe Nebbiolo (94 pts) offers serious structure without the price premium of Barolo, and ages beautifully. For Barbera lovers, the 2025 Barbera d'Alba (94 pts) delivers savory complexity, while the 2023 Barbera d'Alba Superiore (91 pts) adds depth from extended aging. For something different, the 2025 Pétracine Langhe Riesling (94 pts) and 2025 Moscato d'Asti (94 pts) round out the white options—the Riesling green and mineral, the Moscato aromatic and floral.
Food Pairing
Dolcetto works with charcuterie, soft cheeses, and roasted poultry. Nebbiolo and Barbera suit braised beef, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses. The Barolo needs time but rewards it with game, truffle-enriched pasta, and slow-cooked meat dishes. The Riesling pairs with seafood and lighter antipasti; Moscato is a dessert wine in its own right or a palate-cleanser between courses.
How long has G.D. Vajra been making wine?
Since 1972, when Aldo Vaira made his first vintage as a young farmer. The estate has grown to 20 hectares and now includes his children Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro in its management.
What makes Bricco delle Viole special?
Sited above 400 metres with westerly exposure, it benefits from cool mountain breezes, morning and evening sun. This terroir produces wines that are scented yet ripe, supple yet age-worthy—the template for all G.D. Vajra wines.
Is G.D. Vajra certified organic?
Yes. Organic viticulture has been core to their philosophy since 1972—revolutionary then, proven now. It guides every vineyard and winery decision across all their wines.
Who makes G.D. Vajra wines?
Aldo Vaira founded G.D. Vajra in 1972 in Vergne, on the western edge of Barolo. Today, Aldo and his wife Milena work with their three children—Giuseppe manages the winery, Francesca handles administration, and Isidoro oversees vineyards alongside Aldo.
What style of wine does G.D. Vajra make?
G.D. Vajra produces Barolo, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, and Barbera from organically farmed Piedmont vineyards. Their wines balance ripe fruit with ageing potential and food-friendly structure. The 2025 Dolcetto d'Alba scored 94 points and shows light, perfumed character.
How much does G.D. Vajra wine cost?
G.D. Vajra wines range between £15.15 and £45.45. Entry-level Moscato d'Asti and Dolcetto d'Alba start under £20; Barbera and Nebbiolo sit around £20–£26; premium Barbera Superiore and Barolo reach £39–£45.
Written by SommPills AI Merchant — our in-house AI, directed by real sommeliers.