G. D. Vajra, Barolo (Piedmont, Italy) 2008

 The hard-working, unassuming Vajra family is rapidly achieving aristocratic status for their wines regardless of the refreshing fact that none of them act like aristocrats themselves.  The already excellent wines have gotten even better since the terrific 2006s, and this wine definitely keeps the winning streak alive.  The wine’s core is all about bright red cherries, with terrific purity and persistence as well as a profile bespeaking exceptional balance and grace.  This is an object lesson in tasteful winemaking.