Gaja optimistic after ‘spectacular’ harvest

Leading Piedmont producer Gaja is hopeful of producing an outstanding 2015 vintage following a ‘spectacular’ harvest of its Nebbiolo grapes.

According to Gaia Gaja, the 2015 Gaja Nebbiolos are characterised by elegance, soft tannins, fresh acidity and vibrant, complex aromas

Although the harvest was only completed in Piedmont in the second half of October – a month or so later than in Burgundy – the portents are excellent there in the view of Gaia Gaja, daughter of Angelo and marketing manager for the estate.

“It’s still too early to say as some lots are still ending the fermentations and malolactic fermentation did not start yet,” she told the drinks business. “But we are very optimistic about the result of this harvest.

“For our Nebbiolo, the main characteristics seem to be elegance, round and soft tannins, moderated alcoholic content, well-preserved acidities and fresh, vibrant and complex aromas.”

She revealed that there had been some hail damage in La Morra in late June, when it also rained quite heavily, but that they had had a very hot spell from early July to mid-August.

“Then we got some rain again, which was very propitious to the balance and ripening of the tannins,” she added.

The Gaja family was also delighted with the fruit in its Bolgheri vineyards.

“It was a spectacular harvest, with more quantity than 2014 and 2013,” Gaja said.

“The grapes were very tasty with intense flavours and freshness thanks to the wide diurnal range in August. In Montalcino also, we are very happy with the quality of the grapes that were at perfect ripeness. There is intensity, power and bright fruit expression.”