2015 Barolo Albe GD Vajra

Parker-Larner 93 points: This Barolo offers a more immediate approach, with lots of dark berry followed by spice, tilled earth and black truffle. The 2015 Barolo Albe pours to a medium dark color and lays out a mid-weight texture, with bright primary fruit that is expertly woven into the wine. It exposes clearly etched veins of acidity and some determinedly firm tannins. Despite the Albe's accessible personality, I recommend that you wait a few more years before popping the cork.

Wine Spectator 93 points: Pretty, featuring rose, cherry, raspberry and mint flavors, with a touch of mineral. Supple, harmonious and elegant, offering a long finish. The aftertaste is tinged with orange peel and tobacco notes. Best from 2021 through 2036. 4,500 cases made. —BS

Galloni 91 points: The 2015 Barolo Albe is a soft, open-knit wine that will drink well upon release. Bright and lifted, with plenty of red cherry fruit and floral notes, the Albe captures the essence of the Vajra house style nicely. This is a terrific entry-level Barolo, not to mention one of the finest values ​​in Piedmont.