Fresh, compelling and showing impressive definition, the 2013 Langhe Gaia & Rey is a beautiful creation and a wine that occupies a school of its own, especially considering its context that is so focused on great red wine production. There are creeping similarities that are fun to note. Specifically, I am referring to the mouthfeel of this wine that shows sophistication, richness and a creamy texture. It could drink well with structured foods, pork or spicy beef tartare. The bouquet is plentiful and rich with passion fruit, melon, apricot and toasted almond. The wine is exuberant and generous. Given that I tasted a beautifully preserved 1996 vintage of Gaia & Rey at the same time, I feel confident in suggesting a very long drinking window. - Monica Larner