2011 Gaja Costa Russi

Gaja Winery

The Gaja winery was founded in 1859 in Barbaresco and is one of Italy's most influential estates. The house style is focused on precision, terroir expression, and long-term aging, with a strong emphasis on vineyard work and controlled vinification. In the vineyards, work is increasingly carried out 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 typically results in an open and accessible style. The 2011 vintage saw a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and supple tannins, while retaining sufficient freshness to ensure balance and drinkability.

Single vineyard Costa Russi

Costa Russi was first bottled in 1978 and is known as the most early-ripening and accessible of Gaja's three single-vineyard Barbarescos. The style is typically round and smooth, with a pronounced aromatic charm. In 2011, this character comes clearly to the fore, with a wine that offers early pleasure but at the same time has sufficient structure for further aging.

Vineyards

The vineyard is planted on calcareous and clayey soils with good water retention. 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 ripening 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 smoothness. This composition 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 that were harvested fully ripe. Through careful timing, the acidity remained balanced and the tannins became ripe and refined. This resulted in grapes with bright fruit and a soft texture.

Vinification

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

Aging

The wine matured in wooden barrels, with a focus on integrating tannins and preserving aromatic clarity. The aging supports the wine's round style and provides extra 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 smooth, with a soft, graceful structure and refined tannins. The style is harmonious and accessible, with sufficient freshness and an elegant finish.

Development and drinking window

Costa Russi 2011 is already ready to drink and offers great pleasure in its youthful phase, but possesses sufficient structure to develop further. As the wine ages, the aromas will deepen further. The drinking window runs from approximately 2017 to 2033 and can extend slightly longer under good conditions.

Summary of professional reviews

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

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

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

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

Food and wine 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 smooth tannins.
• Risotto with mushrooms and Parmesan, which enhances the earthy and umami elements.
• Braised rabbit with rosemary and carrot, befitting the elegant and accessible character.
• Roasted beetroot with lentils and herbs, respecting the freshness and balance.