The legendary vineyards of Barolo produce extraordinary wines from Nebbiolo. High in acid and fiercely tannic in their youth, these structured, oak-aged bottlings are built to spend decades in the cellar, evolving slowly into poised, aromatically ethereal works of art.

But Nebbiolo can also charm us with radiant simplicity. The Vajra family, master winemakers in the commune of Barolo, capture the delicate transparency of the grape perfectly in a youthfully fresh expression called Claré J.C. Vibrant, chillable and thirst-quenching, this is a warmer-weather red you’ll want to stock up on for keeping cool at backyard barbecues, picnics in the park and long days on the beach.

If you know a little about the Vajra estate, the great quality of this wine will come as no surprise. Active since the nineteenth century, the property was revitalized in 1968 by Aldo Vajra. Since taking the helm, Aldo has remained an influential force in Barolo, pioneering organic viticulture and resuscitating lesser-known varieties like Freisa. Aldo’s passion for his craft is shared by his children who now join him in the vines and cellar.

While the Vajras are progressive in their actions, their wines are classic. Farming is meticulous and vinification of the estate’s flagship Barolos, from magnificent high altitude crus, follows the time-honored protocol of long fermentation and aging in large neutral oak barrels.

From younger vines, Claré J.C. is made with the same attention to detail and respect for terroir as all the Vajra wines, but in a different style. With a far shorter maceration and minimal aging before bottling, this cuvée is light and airy, offering gorgeously lifted aromatics and a pure, crystalline palate. And, while all this freshness might be enough, the inclusion of whole cluster fruit (a practice common in Beaujolais) brings added silkiness plus a hint of palate cleansing, food friendly effervescence.

G.D. Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo J.C. Clare 2022 - $23.99
"The 2022 Langhe Nebbiolo is a pretty, ethereal wine to drink now and over the next few years. Sweet red fruit, mint, spice and chalk lend notable aromatic brightness. Thee 2022 feels a bit light and lacking in the mid-palate, as so many wines are in this vintage. 88pts" - Antonio Galloni, Vinous