Founded in 1971 by Giuseppe Domenico Vajra, G.D. Vajra is one of the most respected family-owned estates in Piedmont. Located in Vergne, the highest village in the Barolo appellation, the winery sits at approximately 400 metres above sea level, where the cooler mountain influence helps preserve freshness and aromatic precision in the wines. Giuseppe Vajra established the estate with a philosophy centred on traditional Piedmontese winemaking combined with careful vineyard management, organic farming and a strong respect for individual vineyard character. Today, the estate is managed by the Vajra family, with Giuseppe’s children Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro continuing the winery’s pursuit of elegant, terroir-focused wines.

The Barbera d’Alba Superiore “Viola delle Viole” is one of G.D. Vajra’s most celebrated expressions of Barbera. The name “Viola delle Viole” refers to the intense violet aromas naturally associated with Barbera and reflects the estate’s approach of treating this traditionally everyday Piedmont grape with the same seriousness given to Nebbiolo. The wine comes from carefully selected old-vine parcels, including vines planted as early as 1949, where deeply rooted plants produce naturally concentrated fruit. Through extended maturation in oak, Vajra transforms Barbera’s naturally high acidity and vibrant fruit character into a wine with depth, complexity and ageing potential.

The 2022 G.D. Vajra Barbera d’Alba Superiore Viola delle Viole is made from 100% Barbera grown in the Barolo hills of Piedmont. The grapes are cultivated organically and harvested from mature vineyards planted on clay and sandstone soils. After fermentation, the wine is aged in large oak vessels, allowing the natural fruit intensity of Barbera to integrate with savoury complexity and structure.

The 2022 vintage shows the distinctive personality of premium Barbera: intense colour, vibrant acidity and generous fruit concentration. Aromas of crushed blueberry, blackberry, ripe plum and violet are complemented by notes of cedar, spices, liquorice, toasted oak and earthy minerals. On the palate, it is rich and powerful yet balanced, with precise tannins, lively acidity and a long savoury finish. Unlike lighter Barbera styles intended for early drinking, Viola delle Viole demonstrates the grape’s ability to develop complexity and longevity.

" Monica Larner praised the wine for its aromatic clarity and elegance, highlighting aromas of earthy iris, gentle oak spice, toasted allspice and ripe fruit. The palate shows excellent balance, with soft integrated tannins providing structure without harshness. " -- Wine Advocate

" Described as an expressive and energetic Barbera with aromas of crushed blueberries, spices, cedar and subtle mineral notes. The palate is full-bodied with compact, precise tannins, vibrant fruit and refreshing acidity creating a harmonious finish." -- James Suckling

" rich and powerful expression, showing dark red and purple fruit character with a dense texture, strong structure and excellent concentration while maintaining freshness. " -- Vinous