2011 Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo
De specificaties zoals vermeld bij de wijn (o.a. wijnjaar) en in de titel zijn leidend en er kunnen geen rechten worden ontleend aan de afbeelding die wordt getoond. Lees meer in onze Frequenty asked questions
| Type of Wine | |
|---|---|
| Country | Italy |
| Region | |
| Appellation | |
| Winery | |
| Vintage | 2011 |
| Grape | |
| Content (Alc) | 0.75 ltr (14%) |
| Drink window | 2021 - 2040 |
| Available as of | Jan 16, 2026 |
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Description
Hidden Cellar – exclusive selection of Grand Cru wines
The Hidden Cellar is Grand Cru's exclusive wine club concept, specially designed for our most loyal customers. You automatically become a member if you regularly order from Grand Cru. As a Hidden Cellar member, you'll have first access to a selection of exceptionally rare wines: vintages, iconic Bordeaux appellations and Burgundies, Italian Super Tuscans, Napa Valley wines, and rare Champagne. We can offer these gems directly from the wineries at very attractive prices, well below market. These are often wines that are no longer available or have become unaffordable. The wines come directly from the wineries and haven't traveled halfway around the world under uncertain circumstances. An overview of all the benefits can be found here .
Gaja Winery
Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, the Gaja winery is among Italy's finest. The estate's style focuses on precision, terroir expression, and long aging, with a consistent focus on quality in both the vineyard and cellar. In the vineyards, Gaja increasingly adheres to sustainable and biodynamic principles, paying attention to soil, low yields, and optimal ripeness. In the cellar, traditional methods are combined with modern insights to ensure structure, balance, and aging potential.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Sorì San Lorenzo is located in the municipality of Barbaresco, in the heart of the Langhe region of Piedmont. The vineyard enjoys favorable exposure and is known for its compact, structured style. The 2011 vintage was characterized by a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and supple tannins, while Sorì San Lorenzo's location allowed it to retain sufficient tension and freshness. This combination produced wines with power and balance.
Single vineyard Sorì San Lorenzo
First bottled in 1967, Sorì San Lorenzo is considered one of Barbaresco's and Italy's most iconic vineyards. Within Gaja's trio of single-vineyard wines, Sorì San Lorenzo is known for its more structured and compact character, with a clear emphasis on minerality and depth. In 2011, the vineyard reveals its distinctive personality, but with slightly softer contours than in more rigorous years, making the wine relatively accessible in its youth.
Vineyards
The vineyard comprises limestone and clay soils with a pronounced mineral subsoil. These soils contribute to the wine's tension, structure, and long-lasting potential. The combination of soil, location, and old vines produces concentrated grapes with a clear terroir signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The wine is made entirely from Nebbiolo. Selection focused on grapes with ripe tannins, aromatic precision, and sufficient acidity. In 2011, this resulted in a wine with ripe red and dark fruit, but also with the characteristic structure typical of Sorì San Lorenzo.
Harvest
The harvest took place in a warm year, with the grapes harvested at full phenolic maturity. Careful timing preserved the balance between ripeness and freshness. This is essential for a vineyard like Sorì San Lorenzo, where structure and tension play a key role.
Vinification
Vinification was carried out with a focus on controlled extraction, appropriate for the character of the vineyard and the vintage. Fermentation and maceration were aimed at developing structure and depth, without making the wine harsh or heavy. This approach emphasizes the mineral and earthy components of the vineyard.
Maturation
Maturation took place in wooden barrels, with a focus on tannin integration and aromatic clarity. This maturation contributes to the wine's complexity and long-lasting potential, without overshadowing the fruit.
Color, smell and taste
The color is deep ruby red. The nose reveals aromas of black cherry, red fruit, pencil shavings, and crushed granite, complemented by notes of spice, smoke, tar, and licorice. On the palate, the wine is powerful and layered, with a compact structure and a distinct mineral core. The tannins are present but gradually refine, providing balance and length. The finish is long, intense, and earthy, with a lasting impression of depth and precision.
Development and drinking window
Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 combines power and structure with a more accessible style than some other vintages from this vineyard. Further bottle aging will bring out more nuance and complexity. Since this is a wine over 15 years old, wine is a natural product and aging can vary from bottle to bottle. The drinking window extends from approximately 2018 to 2040, and possibly longer under optimal conditions.
Summary of professional reviews
Monica Larner awarded this wine 96 points, highlighting its combination of beauty, structure, and mineral depth, with tannins that develop beautifully over time. Antonio Galloni awarded the wine 97+ points, praising the intensity, power, and unmistakable personality of the vineyard, with slightly softer contours in 2011 that allow for early accessibility. The consensus is that this is one of the great expressions of Sorì San Lorenzo.
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
- Venison with a black olive and thyme sauce, complemented well by the structure and earthy notes of the wine.
- Braised pigeon with lentils and sage, matching the depth and spiciness of the wine.
- Risotto with porcini and aged Parmesan, which enhances the umami and minerality.
- Slow-cooked veal cheek with celeriac and bay leaf, which supports the layering and length.
- Roasted beetroot with mushrooms and hazelnut, which respects the earthy and mineral components.
Specifications
| Available as of | Jan 16, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Piemonte |
| Appellation | Barbaresco |
| Icons | Icon Italy |
| Winery | Gaja |
| Grape | Nebbiolo |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2011 |
| Drinking as of | 2021 |
| Drinking till | 2040 |
| Alcohol % | 14 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 96 |
| Vinous rating | 98 |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten. |
Professional Reviews
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 96
Reviewed by:
Monica Larner
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2018 - 2040
The exciting 2011 Sori San Lorenzo is a wine of enormous beauty and grace. Gaia Gaja classifies her three single vineyard Langhe Nebbiolo wines as follows: Costa Russi is “flowers;” Sori Tildin is “fruit;” and San Lorenzo is “plant” (with more structure and a more compact feel). San Lorenzo does indeed boast a strong mineral component of pencil shavings and crushed granite, followed by red cherry and soft spice. The wine’s tannins start off harder than the other wines, but soften with time. Drink: 2018-2040.
I have some happy news to report from the exciting world of Angelo Gaja. The estate that was notoriously difficult (if not impossible) to visit for those outside the wine trade is now opening its doors to the public. There is a steep entrance fee, but the scheme makes perfect sense in my option. Any wine lover can make an appointment to tour the estate and sample wine for up to 300 euros a person. The money must be paid to charity as none of the proceeds go to Gaja. If you have a favorite non-profit organization, make a donation in that amount. Once you send receipt of payment to Gaja’s tasting room staff, your visit will be granted. It sounds like a fair exchange to me.
Importer: Terlato Wines International, www.terlatowines.com
Published: Jun 26, 2014
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Vinous
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Gaja: Sorì San Lorenzo 1971-2011 (Nov 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Since its debut in 1967, Gaja’s Sorì San Lorenzo has established itself as one of the truly iconic wines in Piedmont and Italy. This recent vertical tasting provided a great opportunity to check in on a number of vintages, including most of the reference points.
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Barbaresco’s Stellar 2011s (Oct 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Gaja's 2011s are great lessons in terroir. The Barbaresco shows the wisdom of being able to blend fruit across multiple sites, the Costa Russi is pliant but not quite profound, while the Sorì Tildìn and Sorì San Lorenzo ooze with the personality that only the world's greatest sites possess.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Exclusive Content
Sign in to unlock professional wine reviews from world-renowned critics
Wijnhuis
The history of winery Gaja starts in 1859, the year in which Giovanni Gaja, a local grape grower in Barbaresco, Piemonte, founded a wine company under his own name. A generation later, it is Angelo, grandfather of the current owner, who continues to make wine with the same determination as his father. He is supported in this by Clotilde Rey with whom he marries in 1905. They teach their scion Giovanni named after his grandfather so that as a winemaker you should not make any concessions; nothing should be at the expense of the quality of the wine.
In 1961 Giovannis son Angelo works in the family business. After graduating as an economist from the University of Turin and graduating from the School of Viticulture & Oenology in Alba, the young Angelo left abroad for an internship at wine farms in Bordeaux, Burgundy, along the Rin and in California. Full of fresh ideas, he had now returned to his native Piemonte. When Angelo Gaja took over his parents' company in 1970, he asked his old classmate and winemaker Guido Rivella to assist him. Together they implement a number of revolutionary changes for the region. For example, they sometimes reduce yields per hectare by up to half the number of liters allowed, they experiment with vinification methods, the planting of new - both red and white - grape varieties and pioneering ripening techniques. The results are astonishing and Gaja conquers the world with his beautiful Barbaresco's - the company's flagship.
The nebbiolo grapes for the Barbaresco of Gaja traditionally came from different vineyards. Angelos' father, grandfather and his father did just that before. Although young Angelo would not end this tradition, he launched a new line of Barbaresco's from a single vineyard. Interest in these experimental single vinyard wines became more and more popular. As a proponent of a dynamic, purely quality-oriented wine culture, the brilliant winemaker decides from 1996 to completely break with what he considers to be a conservative and restrictive Italian designation of origin. Only his traditional Barbaresco is still on the market as a prestigious DOCG. He deliberately 'declassifies' all other red single vineyard wines into regional Langhe Nebbiolo DOC. These are the Sorì San Lorenzo, the Sorì Tildìn and the Costa Russi. Gajas Barolo Sperss also underwent the same name change. With the exception of the Dagromis Barolo DOCG, Sito Moresco and Conteisa de Langhe also bear DOC. Langhe DOC is also on the label of his white toppers from Piemonte, the Rossj-Bass, Alteni di Brassica and Gaia & Rey. After all, for Gaja the abbreviation does not guarantee good quality of a wine but the name of the producer.
Food
Spijs
De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten.
Klik op een categorie om heerlijke recepten te ontdekken die perfect combineren met deze wijn.
Heeft u al een gerecht in gedachte?
Laat onze AI-sommelier u helpen met het vinden van de ideale wijn bij uw gerecht
Start de Sommy Wijnadvies ToolHidden Cellar – exclusive selection of Grand Cru wines
The Hidden Cellar is Grand Cru's exclusive wine club concept, specially designed for our most loyal customers. You automatically become a member if you regularly order from Grand Cru. As a Hidden Cellar member, you'll have first access to a selection of exceptionally rare wines: vintages, iconic Bordeaux appellations and Burgundies, Italian Super Tuscans, Napa Valley wines, and rare Champagne. We can offer these gems directly from the wineries at very attractive prices, well below market. These are often wines that are no longer available or have become unaffordable. The wines come directly from the wineries and haven't traveled halfway around the world under uncertain circumstances. An overview of all the benefits can be found here .
Gaja Winery
Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, the Gaja winery is among Italy's finest. The estate's style focuses on precision, terroir expression, and long aging, with a consistent focus on quality in both the vineyard and cellar. In the vineyards, Gaja increasingly adheres to sustainable and biodynamic principles, paying attention to soil, low yields, and optimal ripeness. In the cellar, traditional methods are combined with modern insights to ensure structure, balance, and aging potential.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Sorì San Lorenzo is located in the municipality of Barbaresco, in the heart of the Langhe region of Piedmont. The vineyard enjoys favorable exposure and is known for its compact, structured style. The 2011 vintage was characterized by a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and supple tannins, while Sorì San Lorenzo's location allowed it to retain sufficient tension and freshness. This combination produced wines with power and balance.
Single vineyard Sorì San Lorenzo
First bottled in 1967, Sorì San Lorenzo is considered one of Barbaresco's and Italy's most iconic vineyards. Within Gaja's trio of single-vineyard wines, Sorì San Lorenzo is known for its more structured and compact character, with a clear emphasis on minerality and depth. In 2011, the vineyard reveals its distinctive personality, but with slightly softer contours than in more rigorous years, making the wine relatively accessible in its youth.
Vineyards
The vineyard comprises limestone and clay soils with a pronounced mineral subsoil. These soils contribute to the wine's tension, structure, and long-lasting potential. The combination of soil, location, and old vines produces concentrated grapes with a clear terroir signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The wine is made entirely from Nebbiolo. Selection focused on grapes with ripe tannins, aromatic precision, and sufficient acidity. In 2011, this resulted in a wine with ripe red and dark fruit, but also with the characteristic structure typical of Sorì San Lorenzo.
Harvest
The harvest took place in a warm year, with the grapes harvested at full phenolic maturity. Careful timing preserved the balance between ripeness and freshness. This is essential for a vineyard like Sorì San Lorenzo, where structure and tension play a key role.
Vinification
Vinification was carried out with a focus on controlled extraction, appropriate for the character of the vineyard and the vintage. Fermentation and maceration were aimed at developing structure and depth, without making the wine harsh or heavy. This approach emphasizes the mineral and earthy components of the vineyard.
Maturation
Maturation took place in wooden barrels, with a focus on tannin integration and aromatic clarity. This maturation contributes to the wine's complexity and long-lasting potential, without overshadowing the fruit.
Color, smell and taste
The color is deep ruby red. The nose reveals aromas of black cherry, red fruit, pencil shavings, and crushed granite, complemented by notes of spice, smoke, tar, and licorice. On the palate, the wine is powerful and layered, with a compact structure and a distinct mineral core. The tannins are present but gradually refine, providing balance and length. The finish is long, intense, and earthy, with a lasting impression of depth and precision.
Development and drinking window
Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 combines power and structure with a more accessible style than some other vintages from this vineyard. Further bottle aging will bring out more nuance and complexity. Since this is a wine over 15 years old, wine is a natural product and aging can vary from bottle to bottle. The drinking window extends from approximately 2018 to 2040, and possibly longer under optimal conditions.
Summary of professional reviews
Monica Larner awarded this wine 96 points, highlighting its combination of beauty, structure, and mineral depth, with tannins that develop beautifully over time. Antonio Galloni awarded the wine 97+ points, praising the intensity, power, and unmistakable personality of the vineyard, with slightly softer contours in 2011 that allow for early accessibility. The consensus is that this is one of the great expressions of Sorì San Lorenzo.
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
- Venison with a black olive and thyme sauce, complemented well by the structure and earthy notes of the wine.
- Braised pigeon with lentils and sage, matching the depth and spiciness of the wine.
- Risotto with porcini and aged Parmesan, which enhances the umami and minerality.
- Slow-cooked veal cheek with celeriac and bay leaf, which supports the layering and length.
- Roasted beetroot with mushrooms and hazelnut, which respects the earthy and mineral components.
| Available as of | Jan 16, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Piemonte |
| Appellation | Barbaresco |
| Icons | Icon Italy |
| Winery | Gaja |
| Grape | Nebbiolo |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2011 |
| Drinking as of | 2021 |
| Drinking till | 2040 |
| Alcohol % | 14 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 96 |
| Vinous rating | 98 |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten. |
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 96
Reviewed by:
Monica Larner
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2018 - 2040
The exciting 2011 Sori San Lorenzo is a wine of enormous beauty and grace. Gaia Gaja classifies her three single vineyard Langhe Nebbiolo wines as follows: Costa Russi is “flowers;” Sori Tildin is “fruit;” and San Lorenzo is “plant” (with more structure and a more compact feel). San Lorenzo does indeed boast a strong mineral component of pencil shavings and crushed granite, followed by red cherry and soft spice. The wine’s tannins start off harder than the other wines, but soften with time. Drink: 2018-2040.
I have some happy news to report from the exciting world of Angelo Gaja. The estate that was notoriously difficult (if not impossible) to visit for those outside the wine trade is now opening its doors to the public. There is a steep entrance fee, but the scheme makes perfect sense in my option. Any wine lover can make an appointment to tour the estate and sample wine for up to 300 euros a person. The money must be paid to charity as none of the proceeds go to Gaja. If you have a favorite non-profit organization, make a donation in that amount. Once you send receipt of payment to Gaja’s tasting room staff, your visit will be granted. It sounds like a fair exchange to me.
Importer: Terlato Wines International, www.terlatowines.com
Published: Jun 26, 2014
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Vinous
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Gaja: Sorì San Lorenzo 1971-2011 (Nov 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Since its debut in 1967, Gaja’s Sorì San Lorenzo has established itself as one of the truly iconic wines in Piedmont and Italy. This recent vertical tasting provided a great opportunity to check in on a number of vintages, including most of the reference points.
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Barbaresco’s Stellar 2011s (Oct 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Gaja's 2011s are great lessons in terroir. The Barbaresco shows the wisdom of being able to blend fruit across multiple sites, the Costa Russi is pliant but not quite profound, while the Sorì Tildìn and Sorì San Lorenzo ooze with the personality that only the world's greatest sites possess.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Exclusive Content
Sign in to unlock professional wine reviews from world-renowned critics
The history of winery Gaja starts in 1859, the year in which Giovanni Gaja, a local grape grower in Barbaresco, Piemonte, founded a wine company under his own name. A generation later, it is Angelo, grandfather of the current owner, who continues to make wine with the same determination as his father. He is supported in this by Clotilde Rey with whom he marries in 1905. They teach their scion Giovanni named after his grandfather so that as a winemaker you should not make any concessions; nothing should be at the expense of the quality of the wine.
In 1961 Giovannis son Angelo works in the family business. After graduating as an economist from the University of Turin and graduating from the School of Viticulture & Oenology in Alba, the young Angelo left abroad for an internship at wine farms in Bordeaux, Burgundy, along the Rin and in California. Full of fresh ideas, he had now returned to his native Piemonte. When Angelo Gaja took over his parents' company in 1970, he asked his old classmate and winemaker Guido Rivella to assist him. Together they implement a number of revolutionary changes for the region. For example, they sometimes reduce yields per hectare by up to half the number of liters allowed, they experiment with vinification methods, the planting of new - both red and white - grape varieties and pioneering ripening techniques. The results are astonishing and Gaja conquers the world with his beautiful Barbaresco's - the company's flagship.
The nebbiolo grapes for the Barbaresco of Gaja traditionally came from different vineyards. Angelos' father, grandfather and his father did just that before. Although young Angelo would not end this tradition, he launched a new line of Barbaresco's from a single vineyard. Interest in these experimental single vinyard wines became more and more popular. As a proponent of a dynamic, purely quality-oriented wine culture, the brilliant winemaker decides from 1996 to completely break with what he considers to be a conservative and restrictive Italian designation of origin. Only his traditional Barbaresco is still on the market as a prestigious DOCG. He deliberately 'declassifies' all other red single vineyard wines into regional Langhe Nebbiolo DOC. These are the Sorì San Lorenzo, the Sorì Tildìn and the Costa Russi. Gajas Barolo Sperss also underwent the same name change. With the exception of the Dagromis Barolo DOCG, Sito Moresco and Conteisa de Langhe also bear DOC. Langhe DOC is also on the label of his white toppers from Piemonte, the Rossj-Bass, Alteni di Brassica and Gaia & Rey. After all, for Gaja the abbreviation does not guarantee good quality of a wine but the name of the producer.
Spijs
De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten.
Klik op een categorie om heerlijke recepten te ontdekken die perfect combineren met deze wijn.
Heeft u al een gerecht in gedachte?
Laat onze AI-sommelier u helpen met het vinden van de ideale wijn bij uw gerecht
Start de Sommy Wijnadvies ToolDiscover Wine Trivia
Sign in to unlock fascinating facts about this wine and expand your knowledge.
Sign InDescription
Hidden Cellar – exclusive selection of Grand Cru wines
The Hidden Cellar is Grand Cru's exclusive wine club concept, specially designed for our most loyal customers. You automatically become a member if you regularly order from Grand Cru. As a Hidden Cellar member, you'll have first access to a selection of exceptionally rare wines: vintages, iconic Bordeaux appellations and Burgundies, Italian Super Tuscans, Napa Valley wines, and rare Champagne. We can offer these gems directly from the wineries at very attractive prices, well below market. These are often wines that are no longer available or have become unaffordable. The wines come directly from the wineries and haven't traveled halfway around the world under uncertain circumstances. An overview of all the benefits can be found here .
Gaja Winery
Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, the Gaja winery is among Italy's finest. The estate's style focuses on precision, terroir expression, and long aging, with a consistent focus on quality in both the vineyard and cellar. In the vineyards, Gaja increasingly adheres to sustainable and biodynamic principles, paying attention to soil, low yields, and optimal ripeness. In the cellar, traditional methods are combined with modern insights to ensure structure, balance, and aging potential.
More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.
Region, climate and location
Sorì San Lorenzo is located in the municipality of Barbaresco, in the heart of the Langhe region of Piedmont. The vineyard enjoys favorable exposure and is known for its compact, structured style. The 2011 vintage was characterized by a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and supple tannins, while Sorì San Lorenzo's location allowed it to retain sufficient tension and freshness. This combination produced wines with power and balance.
Single vineyard Sorì San Lorenzo
First bottled in 1967, Sorì San Lorenzo is considered one of Barbaresco's and Italy's most iconic vineyards. Within Gaja's trio of single-vineyard wines, Sorì San Lorenzo is known for its more structured and compact character, with a clear emphasis on minerality and depth. In 2011, the vineyard reveals its distinctive personality, but with slightly softer contours than in more rigorous years, making the wine relatively accessible in its youth.
Vineyards
The vineyard comprises limestone and clay soils with a pronounced mineral subsoil. These soils contribute to the wine's tension, structure, and long-lasting potential. The combination of soil, location, and old vines produces concentrated grapes with a clear terroir signature.
Grape varieties and composition
The wine is made entirely from Nebbiolo. Selection focused on grapes with ripe tannins, aromatic precision, and sufficient acidity. In 2011, this resulted in a wine with ripe red and dark fruit, but also with the characteristic structure typical of Sorì San Lorenzo.
Harvest
The harvest took place in a warm year, with the grapes harvested at full phenolic maturity. Careful timing preserved the balance between ripeness and freshness. This is essential for a vineyard like Sorì San Lorenzo, where structure and tension play a key role.
Vinification
Vinification was carried out with a focus on controlled extraction, appropriate for the character of the vineyard and the vintage. Fermentation and maceration were aimed at developing structure and depth, without making the wine harsh or heavy. This approach emphasizes the mineral and earthy components of the vineyard.
Maturation
Maturation took place in wooden barrels, with a focus on tannin integration and aromatic clarity. This maturation contributes to the wine's complexity and long-lasting potential, without overshadowing the fruit.
Color, smell and taste
The color is deep ruby red. The nose reveals aromas of black cherry, red fruit, pencil shavings, and crushed granite, complemented by notes of spice, smoke, tar, and licorice. On the palate, the wine is powerful and layered, with a compact structure and a distinct mineral core. The tannins are present but gradually refine, providing balance and length. The finish is long, intense, and earthy, with a lasting impression of depth and precision.
Development and drinking window
Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 combines power and structure with a more accessible style than some other vintages from this vineyard. Further bottle aging will bring out more nuance and complexity. Since this is a wine over 15 years old, wine is a natural product and aging can vary from bottle to bottle. The drinking window extends from approximately 2018 to 2040, and possibly longer under optimal conditions.
Summary of professional reviews
Monica Larner awarded this wine 96 points, highlighting its combination of beauty, structure, and mineral depth, with tannins that develop beautifully over time. Antonio Galloni awarded the wine 97+ points, praising the intensity, power, and unmistakable personality of the vineyard, with slightly softer contours in 2011 that allow for early accessibility. The consensus is that this is one of the great expressions of Sorì San Lorenzo.
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
- Venison with a black olive and thyme sauce, complemented well by the structure and earthy notes of the wine.
- Braised pigeon with lentils and sage, matching the depth and spiciness of the wine.
- Risotto with porcini and aged Parmesan, which enhances the umami and minerality.
- Slow-cooked veal cheek with celeriac and bay leaf, which supports the layering and length.
- Roasted beetroot with mushrooms and hazelnut, which respects the earthy and mineral components.
Specifications
| Available as of | Jan 16, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Type of Wine | Red |
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Piemonte |
| Appellation | Barbaresco |
| Icons | Icon Italy |
| Winery | Gaja |
| Grape | Nebbiolo |
| Biological certified | No |
| Natural wine | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vintage | 2011 |
| Drinking as of | 2021 |
| Drinking till | 2040 |
| Alcohol % | 14 |
| Alcohol free/low | No |
| Content | 0.75 ltr |
| Oak aging | Yes |
| Sparkling | No |
| Dessert wine | No |
| Closure | Cork |
| Parker rating | 96 |
| Vinous rating | 98 |
| Sommy Pairing Beschrijving | De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten. |
Professional Reviews
Parker
The Wine Advocate
RP 96
Reviewed by:
Monica Larner
Release Price:
NA
Drink Date:
2018 - 2040
The exciting 2011 Sori San Lorenzo is a wine of enormous beauty and grace. Gaia Gaja classifies her three single vineyard Langhe Nebbiolo wines as follows: Costa Russi is “flowers;” Sori Tildin is “fruit;” and San Lorenzo is “plant” (with more structure and a more compact feel). San Lorenzo does indeed boast a strong mineral component of pencil shavings and crushed granite, followed by red cherry and soft spice. The wine’s tannins start off harder than the other wines, but soften with time. Drink: 2018-2040.
I have some happy news to report from the exciting world of Angelo Gaja. The estate that was notoriously difficult (if not impossible) to visit for those outside the wine trade is now opening its doors to the public. There is a steep entrance fee, but the scheme makes perfect sense in my option. Any wine lover can make an appointment to tour the estate and sample wine for up to 300 euros a person. The money must be paid to charity as none of the proceeds go to Gaja. If you have a favorite non-profit organization, make a donation in that amount. Once you send receipt of payment to Gaja’s tasting room staff, your visit will be granted. It sounds like a fair exchange to me.
Importer: Terlato Wines International, www.terlatowines.com
Published: Jun 26, 2014
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Vinous
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Gaja: Sorì San Lorenzo 1971-2011 (Nov 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Since its debut in 1967, Gaja’s Sorì San Lorenzo has established itself as one of the truly iconic wines in Piedmont and Italy. This recent vertical tasting provided a great opportunity to check in on a number of vintages, including most of the reference points.
97+
Drinking Window
2021 - 2041
From: Barbaresco’s Stellar 2011s (Oct 2014)
The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world's most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can't be denied.
- By Antonio Galloni on July 2014
Gaja's 2011s are great lessons in terroir. The Barbaresco shows the wisdom of being able to blend fruit across multiple sites, the Costa Russi is pliant but not quite profound, while the Sorì Tildìn and Sorì San Lorenzo ooze with the personality that only the world's greatest sites possess.
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Wijnhuis
The history of winery Gaja starts in 1859, the year in which Giovanni Gaja, a local grape grower in Barbaresco, Piemonte, founded a wine company under his own name. A generation later, it is Angelo, grandfather of the current owner, who continues to make wine with the same determination as his father. He is supported in this by Clotilde Rey with whom he marries in 1905. They teach their scion Giovanni named after his grandfather so that as a winemaker you should not make any concessions; nothing should be at the expense of the quality of the wine.
In 1961 Giovannis son Angelo works in the family business. After graduating as an economist from the University of Turin and graduating from the School of Viticulture & Oenology in Alba, the young Angelo left abroad for an internship at wine farms in Bordeaux, Burgundy, along the Rin and in California. Full of fresh ideas, he had now returned to his native Piemonte. When Angelo Gaja took over his parents' company in 1970, he asked his old classmate and winemaker Guido Rivella to assist him. Together they implement a number of revolutionary changes for the region. For example, they sometimes reduce yields per hectare by up to half the number of liters allowed, they experiment with vinification methods, the planting of new - both red and white - grape varieties and pioneering ripening techniques. The results are astonishing and Gaja conquers the world with his beautiful Barbaresco's - the company's flagship.
The nebbiolo grapes for the Barbaresco of Gaja traditionally came from different vineyards. Angelos' father, grandfather and his father did just that before. Although young Angelo would not end this tradition, he launched a new line of Barbaresco's from a single vineyard. Interest in these experimental single vinyard wines became more and more popular. As a proponent of a dynamic, purely quality-oriented wine culture, the brilliant winemaker decides from 1996 to completely break with what he considers to be a conservative and restrictive Italian designation of origin. Only his traditional Barbaresco is still on the market as a prestigious DOCG. He deliberately 'declassifies' all other red single vineyard wines into regional Langhe Nebbiolo DOC. These are the Sorì San Lorenzo, the Sorì Tildìn and the Costa Russi. Gajas Barolo Sperss also underwent the same name change. With the exception of the Dagromis Barolo DOCG, Sito Moresco and Conteisa de Langhe also bear DOC. Langhe DOC is also on the label of his white toppers from Piemonte, the Rossj-Bass, Alteni di Brassica and Gaia & Rey. After all, for Gaja the abbreviation does not guarantee good quality of a wine but the name of the producer.
Food
Spijs
De Gaja Sorì San Lorenzo 2011 is een krachtige en gestructureerde wijn met een rijk smaakprofiel van rijp zwart en rood fruit, aangevuld met minerale tonen en subtiele kruidigheid. Door de mooie balans tussen rijpe tannines en frisse zuren past deze wijn uitstekend bij gerechten met een rijke en aardse karakter, zoals geroosterd rundvlees, wild en langzaam gegaard vlees. Gerechtelijke bereidingen zoals langzaam gegaarde kalfswang of gestoofde duif met kruidige accenten versterken de diepgang en complexiteit van de wijn, terwijl bereidingen met paddenstoelen en hartige sauzen de minerale en aardse tonen extra naar voren brengen. Een mooie bereidingswijze die de volle smaak van de wijn complimenteert, is bijvoorbeeld het langzaam garen van vlees op lage temperatuur om de structuur te behouden en de smaken te laten samensmelten.
Klik op een categorie om heerlijke recepten te ontdekken die perfect combineren met deze wijn.
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