1978 Gaja, Barbaresco (RT96+) It’s almost always a joy to drink a fully mature Gaja that’s been properly stored over the years and the ’78 Gaja Barbaresco was just that. It is a stunning wine with a decidedly lighter hue than either the ’78 Giacosa Riserva Collina Rionda or the ’89 Giacosa Riserva Falletto that followed in this flight. The absolutely penetrating bouquet shows layers of dried Morello cherry, sweet balsam, a potpourri of dried flowers, hints of crisp forest floor and a pinch of Islay smokiness. Superb on the palate, this is right up there with the most beautifully balanced ‘78s I’ve had, showing impressive richness, magnitude, and perfectly balanced acidity. Still showing ample structure and cashmere textured tannins, this is obviously the handiwork a master! The beauty of this wine greatly exceeded expectations! Drink now-2033+
