Gaia & Rey

Gaja is one of the best-known wine producers in all of Italy. Originating in and still based in Barbaresco, in northwest Italy. Gaja name remains most strongly associated with Nebbiolo-based wines, though the company now makes more wine in Tuscany than Piedmont.  The business was founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja with just two hectares (five acres) of vineyards in Barbaresco. Each generation saw expansion, although Angelo Gaja, who took over full-time in 1970, is often credited with the estate's more recent success. 

The Gaja estate's first white wine, sourced from the Gaia & Rey vineyard which was planted in 1979. It is named for Angelo Gaja's oldest daughter, Gaia Gaja, and his grandmother, Clotilde Rey. It is a 100% Chardonnay varietal wine, with 6–8 months of barrique aging with malolactic fermentation.

The 2018 Gaja Gaia & Rey Chardonnay is a straw yellow color. The aromas cascade onto the palate with depth and richness, plus an inviting sweet note of honey. Bright acidity provides energy and graces the wine with a pleasant balance and immediate drinkability. The fruity notes of white peach follow all the way through a very long finish.