G.D. Vajra Langhe Pinot Nero is one of the more distinctive Pinot Noir expressions from the Langhe, largely because it comes from an unusually high-altitude site within the commune of Barolo. When the family was not permitted to plant Nebbiolo at the very top of the hill, Aldo Vajra chose Pinot Noir instead. The vineyard sits at around 497 meters above sea level, and that elevation became a hallmark of the wine—early releases were often nicknamed “PN Q497” as a tribute to the site’s height.
The estate is best known for Nebbiolo and Barolo, yet this Pinot Nero fits neatly into Vajra’s broader philosophy: high altitude, a cooler microclimate, and a style that prioritizes perfume, transparency, and fine-grained structure over sheer power. In the cellar, selection is meticulous, and the winemaking is geared toward preserving freshness and aromatic precision. Ageing is handled gently—often a combination of neutral wood and time in tank, depending on the vintage—adding shape and texture without imposing overt oak character.
In the glass, the wine is typically a brighter ruby hue and clearly Pinot in profile: red berries and cherry, subtle woodland notes, often a floral lift, and a touch of spice. The palate tends to be silky and medium-bodied rather than heavy, with lively acidity and refined tannins that create tension and elegance. It’s a wine that benefits from slightly cool serving temperatures and often improves with a bit of air to open the aromatics.
Serving and pairing
Serve slightly cool, around 14–16 °C, to highlight freshness and aromatic lift.
A brief aeration of 20–40 minutes can help, especially in younger vintages.
Pair with poultry, veal, mushroom dishes, truffle-leaning flavors, or mildly aged cheeses.
