GAJA
Sperss Barolo DOP
Sperss translates to “nostalgia” in local dialect. This was the first step outside Barbaresco for the Gaja family, and a project dear to Angelo Gaja and his father,
Giovanni Gaja.
In 1988 the Gaja family purchased twelve hectares of vineyard in one of the best positions in Serralunga. A 7-hectare single vineyard was named Sperss, a Piedmontese dialect word meaning nostalgia, that of Giovanni Gaja (Angelo’s father) for the childhood memories linked with Serralunga.
The Sperss single vineyard is located in Serralunga d’Alba and the soil is composed of compact clay and limestone.
- Region
- Piedmont
- Appellation
- Barolo DOP
- Varietal Composition
- Nebbiolo
- Aging
- Aged in oak for 30 months.
- Alcohol
- 14%
The terroir expresses itself through deep mineral tones layered with vibrant notes of tart black cherry, truffle, licorice, and dried earth. On the palate, the wine is dense and structured, with an austere, powerful texture that speaks to its youth and pedigree. Despite its firmness, there is remarkable depth and precision, with a long, savory finish that underscores the wine’s complexity and age-worthy character.
Wine Advocate
97 Points
2022
The Gaja 2022 Barolo Sperss shows greater dimension and depth than the Conteisa, with a broader, more robust frame and a darker fruit profile to match. Black cherry and cassis are layered with earthy spice and mineral notes, while the palate is firmly structured with pronounced, chalky tannins that give the wine impressive drive and aging potential. Despite the concentration of the 2022 vintage, the wine remains beautifully balanced, with freshness carrying the fruit through the finish. As I taste the recent trio of hot vintages—2020, 2022 and now 2023—I find myself wondering whether wines of this caliber will ultimately be enjoyed at a younger age than previous generations. The 2023s are already remarkably expressive, whereas the 2022 Sperss feels destined for a longer evolution in bottle.
— Monica Larner, 2026
Jancis Robinson
17++ Points
2022
Youthful mid ruby. A little closed on the nose but with real concentration and hints of exotic spice. Supple, suave fruit and still a little embryonic. Bags of gravelly tannins remaining perfectly under the fruit. Great length and balance. Tactile fireworks.
— Walter Speller, 2026
