Gaja   Gaia Rey

2008 Gaia & Rey

By Gaja

2008 Gaia & Rey from Gaja, Italy

One of the fine wines that established Italy on the global map in oenological terms is none other than the ethereal 2008 Gaia & Rey from the esteemed producer, Gaja. The thrilling performance of the 2008 vintage from this prestigious Italian winery is a tale of challenging climatic conditions and meticulous viticulture, resulting in a wine of substantial depth and longevity.

 

The Magnificence of Gaia & Rey

A great advocate for Piemontese wines, Gaja has shaped the Italian wine scene with its commitment to quality and innovation. Even so, the 2008 Gaia & Rey shows these ideals resoundingly, offering an expertise seldom encountered in other vintages. It is no wonder why sophisticates and investors alike rave about this embodiment of Italian wine craftsmanship.

The striking characteristic of this vintage lies in its remarkable aromatic profile - a vibrancy of honeyed peach, acacia blossom, and citruses make it distinctly individual. An unparalleled freshness and tangible minerality offer the spine to support this ravishing panoply of aromas.

 

Climate's role - a defining 2008 narrative

The narrative of 2008 is one marked by climatic challenges. The cold, wet vintage demanded multiple tasks in the vineyard to ensure top-notch fruit selection. This adversity only enhanced the legendary resilience of the Chardonnay grapes used in crafting Gaia & Rey.

The sophisticated palates recognize how this cooler year enabled an extended hang time for the grapes, resulting in a delightful tension between ripe fruits and vibrant acidity – which is what sets 2008 Gaia & Rey from Gaja apart.

This inimitable expression of the trifecta of terroir, vineyard skill, and climate over the generic traits of Chardonnay makes the 2008 Gaia & Rey a quotable example of a must-have fine wine from Italy, and a prudent approximation of elegance in a glass.

For those seeking both enjoyment and investment, there is much to admire in the classic nature of the grapes and the dazzling finesse of this vintage that resonates across time.

Current market price

$4,770.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

238.33

Scores and tasting notes

92

The 2008 Gaia e Rey (Chardonnay) sweeps across the palate with layers of rich, expressive fruit. All of the elements are beautifully balanced in this soft, articulate Gaia e Rey. The 2008 is a gorgeous yet understated vintage for this wine. The 2008 was fermented in stainless steel, and was then moved into French oak barrels for the malolactic fermentation and aging. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Getting to the top in any field is hard. Staying at the top is even harder. For all of the praise Angelo Gaja and his family have received over the years, they have earned and deserve every bit of it. These new releases, the 2008 reds from Barolo in particular, are insanely beautiful. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 25 April 2012

Vintage performance