Barbaresco Costa Russi, Gaja 2023

Poured first among the three single-vineyard Barbarescos, the Gaja 2023 Barbaresco Costa Russi immediately establishes itself as the most delicate and finessed of the trio. It presents a more classical, old-school expression of Barbaresco with beautifully lifted aromatics that are especially expressive on the nose. The palate mirrors that elegance with silky, exquisitely polished tannins that carry the wine effortlessly across a long, graceful finish. Rather than relying on power, the Costa Russi succeeds through finesse, harmony and extraordinary textural refinement.

The 2023 Barbaresco Costa Russi was bottled only three weeks prior to my tasting in December 2025, after extended time in barrel. It pours a jeweled ruby color and offers notes of framboise, cherries, and polished stone. The tannins remind me somewhat of the 2020 in their silkiness and definition, showing harmony without feeling overdeveloped. There is a beautiful refinement to the structure, with fresh acidity and a long, balanced finish. 2,900 bottles were produced. Drink 2027-2050.

The 2023 Barbaresco Costa Russi is a stunner, starting with its captivating scents of rose, eucalyptus, iris and sandalwood. Showing elegance and restraint, the balanced, already accessible palate features succulent Morello cherry, cake spice, star anise and crushed mint before a blood orange finish. Polished tannins and fresh acidity provide seamless support and balance. It's already drinking beautifully and will offer several years and more of fine sipping. Drink through 2035. Abv: 13.5%