Langhe Rosso

G. D. Vajra is a celebrated producer in Langhe broadly and Barolo in particular, and their wines are always a smart choice when spotted on a list. Their Rosso is loaded with minerality — an instant winner in my book. This ready-to-drink blend combines Piedmont’s classic grapes with several heirloom varieties, resulting in something playful and uplifting. With its bright acidity and firm structure, it is a versatile pairing for hearty dishes, from wild boar ragù to a simple meatball sub. 90 Vince Simmon

Langhe Rosso remains one of my favourite little gems, almost always overdelivering quality wine for price. That's especially true with a legendary producer like G.D. Vajra. Varja's Langhe Rosso is a blend of younger vine nebbiolo, barbera, dolcetto, fresia, albarossa, and pinot noir, meant to give an overview of the region. This is sourced from various vineyards, each variety vinified separately, fermented in stainless, and then into French barrels from new to 3 years in age, for 2 years. Raspberry leather, cherry blossoms, scrubby thorns are woven throughout this medium bodied red, with fine, toothsome tannins pinning in the sides through a lifted pink peppercorn finish. Great energy and charm in this humble Rosso, one that will be welcome at most any dinner table.