2013 Gaja Costa Russi

Gaja Winery

Gaja is one of Italy's most influential wineries and has played a key role in Piedmont's international reputation for decades. Founded in 1859 in Barbaresco, the estate, under the leadership of Angelo Gaja, became one of the great icons of the Italian wine world. Through strict selection in the vineyard, low 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 make wines that express the Barbaresco terroir as purely as possible.

2013 Gaja Barbaresco Costa Russi

Costa Russi, along with Sorì Tildìn and Sorì San Lorenzo, is one of Gaja's renowned single-vineyard Barbarescos. The vineyard is located directly below Sorì Tildìn on the edge of the village of Barbaresco and is known for its elegant and aromatic style. The vines average over 65 years old and grow on calcareous clay and marl soils, resulting in Nebbiolo with finesse, aromatic complexity, and a clear structure.

A new chapter for Gaja

The 2013 vintage marks a significant change in Gaja's history. For the first time, the renowned Cru wines Sorì San Lorenzo, Sorì Tildìn, and Costa Russi are being produced entirely as 100% Nebbiolo and re-released as Barbaresco DOCG. In previous vintages, a small percentage of Barbera was added. This decision underscores the Gaja family's ambition to let the vineyards express themselves even more directly and purely.

The 2013 vintage

The 2013 vintage is considered a classic and structured vintage in Piedmont. The growing season enjoyed relatively cool conditions and a long ripening period, allowing Nebbiolo to retain its aromatic precision and fresh acidity. The result is wines with clear structure, refined tannins, and excellent aging potential.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a bright ruby-red color with light garnet hues. The nose opens refined and aromatic with notes of red berries, rose petals, and lavender. This is followed by more complex aromas of mint, graphite, chocolate, and subtle spices.

On the palate, the wine displays a combination of finesse and power. The structure is clearly present, with classic Nebbiolo tannins that give the wine length and tension. The fruit is clear and pure, with notes of strawberry, cherry, and ripe red berry. The wine has a striking freshness and a long, elegant finish with floral and mineral nuances.

Reviews and reputation

This vintage received 95 points from The Wine Advocate. James Suckling awarded it 98 points, praising its combination of power, finesse, and fresh structure. Antonio Galloni also awarded it 98 points, describing the wine as crystal clear and vibrant in its Nebbiolo expression. According to Galloni, the 2013 Costa Russi is one of the most impressive wines in the series, boasting exceptional precision and aromatic lift.

Storage capacity

Thanks to its structure and fresh acidity, this Barbaresco has excellent aging potential. The wine can continue to develop for decades, reaching its optimal drinking window from around 2023 until well after 2040.

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.