The Vajras are one of the first families of Barolo! With unparalleled holdings in the west-side hills above Barolo castle, they organically farm prime spots in the Bricco delle Viole MGA, in the Vergne zone as well as small holdings in Fossati (a steep slope running along the border between La Morra and Barolo), La Volta (just under Viole), and Coste de Vergne (located over the shoulder of La Morra hill facing Cherasco near their winery). It’s their single-vineyard bottling from the so-called ‘hilltop of violets,’ though, that is the winery’s most famous calling card. The Bricco, located right outside the winery door, is one of the most important vineyards in the entire Barolo zone. Its southern orientation is exemplary and, thanks to its relatively high elevation, the wines tend to have a bit of welcome elegance to go with their signature power and longevity, especially in warmer vintages like 2022. The Vajra Bricco delle Viole is considered to be the benchmark wine of the MGA and, in 2022, it’s indeed a truly noble effort. Powerful and packed with fruit, its incredible aromatics and a silky texture that epitomize the classic ‘tar and roses’ Barolo. There is a lot of heft to a mid-palate of cherry confit, camphor, cinnamon and dried floral notes and the finish a gorgeous mélange of fruit, mineral and tannin. While this impressive wine drinks well now, I think it’s more a mid-term proposition, but I’d stash some into the back of the cellar too.

*Bricco delle Viole reviews:

Jeb Dunnuck, 98+ points: A jeweled ruby color, the 2022 Barolo Bricco delle Viole saw one of the largest crop losses in the vintage, with roughly 20 to 30 percent of the fruit lost. Aromas of cherry cordial, framboise, preserved roses, and fresh lavender lead into a stunning palate that is pure, long, and beautifully balanced. As is often the case, this cuvée stands out in the range and may well be among the highlights of the vintage across the region. Drink 2026-2046.

James Suckling, 96 points

Kerin O’Keefe, 95 points