2013 Gaja Barolo Conteisa

Gaja Winery

Gaja is one of Italy's most influential wineries and played a significant role in Piedmont's international reputation. Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, the estate, under the leadership of Angelo Gaja, became one of the most iconic names in Italian wine. Through stricter selection in the vineyard, lower yields, and meticulous vinification, Gaja significantly raised the bar for Nebbiolo. Today, the estate is led by the new generation of Gaia, Rossana, and Giovanni Gaja, but the philosophy remains the same: to craft wines that express the character of Piedmont's finest vineyards as purely as possible.

2013 Gaja Barolo Conteisa

Conteisa is one of Gaja's two Barolo wines and comes from the renowned Cerequio cru in La Morra, one of Barolo's most prestigious vineyards. The first vintage was 1996. For a long time, Conteisa was released as Langhe Nebbiolo, but it now officially carries the Barolo DOCG classification. The vineyard is known for Nebbiolo with finesse, aromatic complexity, and a refined structure.

The Cerequio Vineyard

Cerequio, located between La Morra and Barolo, is considered one of the region's finest crus. The soils consist of chalky marl, which gives Nebbiolo a combination of aromatic finesse and structure. Wines from this vineyard often display an elegant style with refined tannins and a clear aromatic expression.

The 2013 vintage

The 2013 vintage is considered a classic Piedmont vintage, with a long and relatively cool ripening period. The grapes ripened slowly, resulting in wines with fresh acidity, a distinct tannic structure, and high aromatic precision. Vinification at Gaja involved slow fermentations at low temperatures to preserve the finesse and aromatic expression of Nebbiolo.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a deep ruby red color with garnet hues. The nose opens with complex aromas of strawberry, cherry, and orange peel, complemented by notes of white chocolate, spices, and floral accents. As the wine opens, aromas of black cherry, smoke, licorice, leather, and subtle tarry nuances also emerge.

Powerful and structured on the palate, with ripe tannins that give the wine length and tension. The fruit is clear and concentrated, with notes of cherry, red berry, and citrusy freshness. The structure is firm yet refined, with a long and complex finish that reveals spicy and mineral notes.

Reviews and reputation

This vintage received 95 points from The Wine Advocate. James Suckling awarded the wine 96 points, praising its precision, aromatic intensity, and concentrated mouthfeel. Antonio Galloni awarded it 94 points, highlighting the powerful structure and dark, brooding style of the 2013. According to Galloni, this Barolo will need several more years of aging to fully develop.

Storage capacity

Thanks to its firm tannin structure and concentrated fruit, this Barolo has excellent aging potential. The wine can continue to develop for decades and is expected to reach its optimal drinking window between approximately 2025 and 2043.

Wine-Food and Discount

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. In the "Food" tab, you'll find advice on what to consider for the perfect wine-food pairing and several dish suggestions from our Sommelier.