Gaja – Costa Russi Barbaresco 1996 – Piedmont Italy

Gaja Costa Russi Barbaresco 1996 is one of the most celebrated single-vineyard Nebbiolo wines in Italy. Sourced from the historic Costa Russi vineyard in Barbaresco, this wine combines depth, elegance, and remarkable complexity, reflecting the precision and vision that have made Gaja a benchmark producer in Piedmont.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grape: Predominantly Nebbiolo
• Region: Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 1996
• Aging: Oak-aged before extended bottle maturation
• Style: Full-bodied, age-worthy dry red wine

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

• Body: Full-bodied
• Fruit: Dried cherry, red currant, wild strawberry
• Savory: Rose petal, tobacco, truffle, licorice, sweet spice
• Structure: Refined tannins, vibrant acidity, exceptionally long finish

The 1996 Costa Russi opens with beautifully evolved aromas of dried flowers, mature red fruit, spice, tobacco, and earthy complexity. The palate balances richness and finesse, revealing layers of tertiary character alongside the freshness and structure that define great Nebbiolo. Long, nuanced, and remarkably expressive, it showcases the extraordinary aging potential of this iconic vineyard.

❤️ Why We Love It

• One of Gaja’s flagship single-vineyard Barbarescos
• A benchmark expression of world-class Nebbiolo from Barbaresco
• Combines elegance, complexity, and exceptional longevity

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Tajarin with white truffle or mushroom ragù
• Braised veal, roasted duck, or wild game
• Aged Parmigiano Reggiano and hard alpine cheeses

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Collectors seeking mature, cellar-worthy Nebbiolo
✓ Drinkers who appreciate tertiary complexity and elegance
✕ Not ideal for those seeking youthful, fruit-forward reds