2011 Sori Tildin

An absolutely brilliant wine, the 2011 Sorì Tildìn bristles with energy, precision and tension. In this vintage the higher altitude of Sorì San Tildìn vis-à-vis Costa Russi comes through loud and clear. Freshly cut flowers, small red berries, mint, white pepper and crushed rocks are all very much alive in a striking, nuanced Sorì Tildìn that expresses both the class of this site and the generosity of the year.

The 2011 Sori Tildin is always a wine of great aromatic potential and the 2011 vintage is no exception. This Barbaresco-inspired red bursts from the glass with enormous verve and personality. Mineral notes of pencil shaving and brimstone come on the heels of red fruit and red currant. Drink: 2018-2035. I have some happy news to report from the exciting world of Angelo Gaja. The estate that was notoriously difficult (if not impossible) to visit for those outside the wine trade is now opening its doors to the public. There is a steep entrance fee, but the scheme makes perfect sense in my option. Any wine lover can make an appointment to tour the estate and sample wine for up to 300 euros a person. The money must be paid to charity as none of the proceeds go to Gaja. If you have a favorite non-profit organization, make a donation in that amount. Once you send receipt of payment to Gaja’s tasting room staff, your visit will be granted. It sounds like a fair exchange to me. Importer: Terlato Wines International, www.terlatowines.com

Good bright, deep red. Deeply pitched aromas of raspberry and spicy oak, with more exotic spices and a whiff of medicinal herbs emerging with air. Less perfumed in the mid-palate today than the Costa Russi but lush, rich and forward, with enticing flavors of red fruits, spices and flowers. A bit less oaky in the mouth than on the nose. Finishes with firm, ripe tannins and excellent length.