Gaja Rossj-Bass Chardonnay 2023
The Wine
The work of mythical Italian producer Angelo Gaja, the Chardonnay-based Rossj Bass is named after Angelo’s youngest daughter, Rossana, and ranks amongst Italy’s most sought-after white wines. The addition of a small proportion of Sauvignon Blanc to this Chardonnay has created a rounded, structured wine that exudes grace and sophistication.
Fermented in stainless steel tanks and then aged in barriques for six to seven months, the nose erupts with ripe peaches, mangos, sweet lemon curd, toasted almonds and hints of fresh flowers and mountain herbs. In the mouth the rich, full texture is balanced by a crisp acidity and intense tropical fruit, citrus and toasty flavours which linger long on the tongue. The opulent character of the Rossj Bass makes it a versatile match for special chicken or lobster dishes as well as milder Asian pork or salmon recipes.
Often compared to the finest white Burgundies from Montrachet, the limited production Rossj Gaja is in high demand with Chardonnay lovers around the globe thanks to the decades Angelo has devoted to proving the potential of Piedmontese wines. When he took over the family business in 1970, he controversially introduced temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and small oak barriques for ageing, ushering in a new era for Piedmontese winemaking. Today he is in the process of handing over the reins to the next generation, his three children, but there is no doubt his magnificent legacy will endure for decades to come throughout the Piedmont region.
The Details
Variety - Chardonnay
Country - Italy
Region - Piemonte
Sub Region - Langhe
Extra - Cork
Year - 2023
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
Gaja is widely considered one of the world’s most respected wine producers. Founded in 1859 in Piedmont the family’s impact on wine production is to be celebrated. In 1937 when Giovanni Gaja took over management of the estate he was instrumental in changing the labels of the Piedmont wines presenting the famous Gaja name first and foremost on the label, something at the time considered highly controversial,
Continuing the innovation Angelo Gaja took over the family business in 1970. He said “The challenge was to maintain the basic power and depth of Nebbiolo while polishing the wines to give them richer colour, fuller fruit, better balance and a more refined style”. To do this the estate embarked on a considerable replanting programme including planting non indigenous varietals such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon on Barbaresco classified sites.
In tandem with the replanting programme Angelo set about a modernisation of the winery and it’s approach to aging, implementing temperature controlled tanks, something very new to the region at the time. Gaja introduced the concept of aging some of their wines in barrique and bottling single vineyard expressions of their Barbaresco.
