Gaja Barbaresco 2001

94 points James Button (Decanter): "2001 was an excellent vintage for Nebbiolo in Piedmont, and Gaja's benchmark Barbaresco is showing beautifully today with two decades under its belt. There was more new oak used then compared to more recent vintages, and this 2001 also precedes a change in pruning methodology in 2004 which is still used today, leaving two shoots at the top of the plant and alternating between using one one year, and the other the next year. Dark, silky fresh fruits and fine, woody grip combine with quite a youthful colour to suggest this has years left in the tank yet. Notes of tobacco, cedar and wood polish are followed in the mouth by sweet forest fruits and vibrant acidity. The finish is slightly drying and woody, but it's filled out with those sweet fruits. Drinking Window: 2023-2032. (10/10/23)"

93 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "The 2001 Barbaresco is gorgeous. Sweet balsamic notes open on the bouquet, followed intense, silky layers of fruit. The 2001 is subtle, classy and elegant from start to finish. Hints of early maturity appear in the aromatics, but the wine has more than enough fruit to support at least another decade of fine drinking. Tobacco, sweet herbs and licorice add the final notes of complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. (Apr 2012)"

93 points Wine Spectator: "Gorgeous aromas of blackberries and ripe strawberries follow through to a full-bodied palate with fine tannins and a clean, fresh finish. Very round and ripe tannins. Lovely wine. Best after 2008. (2/28/05)"

93 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Good deep red. Complex, ineffable nose combines red fruits, marzipan, tobacco and minerals. Pure, firm and sharply delineated; boasts superb richness of flavor without any undue weight. The wine's solid acid spine contributes to its impression of structure. Finishes gripping and very long. (Nov 2004)"