G. D. Vajra Langhe Rosso

G.D. Vajra's Langhe Rosso is a beautiful introduction to the wines of Piedmont, led by Nebbiolo with smaller amounts of Dolcetto, Barbera, and other local varieties. Fresh, soulful, and wonderfully aromatic, it offers bright red berries, rose petals, savory herbs, and a touch of earthy spice, all wrapped up in a silky, medium-bodied frame.

Vajra is one of Barolo's blue-chip estates, and much of the Nebbiolo in this wine comes from their Barolo vineyards. It's lighter on its feet than Barolo, with bright acidity and fine tannins, but it has plenty of Piedmontese character. A terrific food wine for pizza, pasta with red sauce, mushroom risotto, roast chicken, or a casual charcuterie spread.