Founded in 1972, this excellent Barolo estate is named after Giuseppe Domenico, father of the latest generation in charge, Aldo. But the family has had a presence in the region for more than 200 years, owning vineyards of their own from the 1920s. Over the years Aldo and his wife Milena have gradually expanded their vineyard holdings to 60 hectares, 10 of which are Barolo in some prestigious spots, including Bricco delle Viole, Fossati, La Volta and Coste di Vergne. Their winery and cellars are in the village of Vergne in the very heart of the commune of Barolo.
Since 2019 all the Vajra vineyards have been certified organic, though they have been committed to farming sustainably since the estate was founded. Nebbiolo and dolcetto, the latter planted on the higher land above the nebbiolo, predominate with some riesling, chardonnay, nascetta and sauvignon also grown for some delicious white wines.
Their vines are at 400 metres above sea level, an elevation which slows down and lengthens the ripening period so that they harvest, by hand, a little later than many of their local peers but achieve a wonderful balance of freshness and ripeness in the grapes, a balance that is reflected clearly in the wines.
Traditional methods are employed in the winery, including longer maceration times and the use of Slavonian oak for ageing for up to three and a half years. This creates the Vajra style: elegance and finesse, but with underlying power, intensity, balance and the capacity to age with ease.
Such is the reputation of the Vajra family for their skill and dedication that when Luigi and Fiorina Baudana, owners of a fine small estate in Serralunga d'Alba, were looking for someone to take over their 2.6 hectares of vines on an excellent site as they wound down their involvement.
In January 2009, Luigi and Fiorina entrusted the Vajra family with it, to understand and perpetuate the estates superb reputation. Today Giuseppe, Francesca and Isidoro Vajra oversee the Baudana’s legacy and have done them proud, bringing renewed energy and commitment. It couldn’t be in better hands.