2011 Gaja Costa Russi

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Gaja Winery

Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, Gaja is one of Italy's most influential estates. The estate's style focuses on precision, terroir expression, and extended aging, with a strong emphasis on vineyard work and controlled vinification. The vineyards are increasingly working according to sustainable and biodynamic principles, while in the cellar, tradition and modern insights are combined to ensure balance and consistency.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

Costa Russi is located in the municipality of Barbaresco, in the Langhe region of Piedmont. The vineyard is situated in a relatively sheltered and warmer location, which generally results in an open and accessible style. The 2011 vintage experienced a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and supple tannins, while retaining sufficient freshness to ensure balance and drinkability.

Single vineyard Costa Russi

First bottled in 1978, Costa Russi is known as the most precocious and approachable of Gaja's three single-vineyard Barbarescos. The style is typically round and supple, with a distinct aromatic charm. This character is clearly evident in 2011, with a wine that offers early enjoyment while also possessing sufficient structure for further aging.

Vineyards

The vineyard is planted on limestone and clay soils with good water management. The location and soil contribute to ripeness and softness in the tannins. Costa Russi is often the last vineyard to be harvested, ensuring full phenolic ripeness and aromatic depth.

Grape varieties and composition

The wine is made primarily from Nebbiolo, with a small addition of Barbera. Nebbiolo determines the aromatic profile and structure, while Barbera contributes roundness and suppleness. This blend enhances the accessible character of Costa Russi, especially in a warm year like 2011.

Harvest

The harvest took place in a warm year, with grapes harvested at full maturity. Careful timing kept the acidity balanced and the tannins ripe and refined. This resulted in grapes with bright fruit and a soft texture.

Vinification

Vinification was carried out with a focus on gentle extraction, in keeping with the character of the vintage. Fermentation and maceration were aimed at preserving fruit expression and developing a smooth texture, without harshness or excessive extraction.

Maturation

The wine was aged in wooden barrels, with a focus on tannin integration and aromatic clarity. This aging enhances the wine's rounded style and adds depth without overpowering the fruit.

Color, smell and taste

The color is bright ruby red. The aroma reveals notes of ripe cherry, plum, cassis, and spices, complemented by nuances of cola, leather, and light wood. On the palate, the wine is round and supple, with a soft, graceful structure and refined tannins. The style is harmonious and accessible, with ample freshness and an elegant finish.

Development and drinking window

Costa Russi 2011 is already ready to drink and offers plenty of pleasure in its youth, yet has sufficient structure to develop further. As the wine matures, the aromas will deepen. The drinking window runs from approximately 2017 to 2033 and can extend slightly under good conditions.

Summary of professional reviews

Monica Larner awarded this wine 94 points, highlighting its youthful freshness, round texture, and ripe cherry notes, along with a smooth and accessible style. Antonio Galloni also awarded it 94 points, praising its soft, graceful expression, with plenty of charm in the short and medium term. Both reviewers consider the 2011 Costa Russi a pleasant and balanced Barbaresco with a wide drinking window.

The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

• Roasted guinea fowl with sage and mushrooms, matching the round texture and spicy notes.
• Veal entrecote with a light jus and roasted vegetables, which complements the supple tannins.
• Mushroom and Parmesan risotto, which enhances the earthy and umami elements.
• Braised rabbit with rosemary and carrot, matching the elegant and accessible character.
• Roasted beetroot with lentils and herbs, which respects the freshness and balance.