Gaja   Sperss

2000 Sperss

By Gaja

2000 Sperss from Gaja, Langhe, Italy

Consider the 2000 Sperss from Gaja as emblematic of the intense finesse stemming from Italy's wine-rich region of Piemonte. Angelo Gaja, a maestro in the realm of viticulture, succeeded splendidly in capturing both time and terroir in this striking vintage produced at the onset of the 21st century.

 

An infusion of richness in an exceptional millennial vintage

Aromatic, focused, and beautifully polished, the 2000 vintage manifests an exquisite depth unseen in previous vintages from Gaja. Skilfully embroidered upon the canvas of Nebbiolo—using a minor yet impactful contribution of Barbera—2000 Sperss unveils itself with delicious piquancy and an undeniable allure.

Delicate traces of wild cherries, roses, spices, and minerals make their playful parade across the palate. Each sip carries forth an authentic narrative etched by the unique blend of climatic sequences across that year.

 

Reaping rewards of the 2000 growing season

The year 2000, with its climatic variations ranging from a moderate spring to a sun-soaked summer riddled with brief yet intense showers, breathed life into characteristically rich and full-bodied Italian wines. Each bottle of 2000 Sperss is a testament to Gaja's masterful navigation through the weather nuances of this vintage year.

Boasting a sheer radiance in its ruby-red hue, this vintage crowns itself as not only a true epicurean delight but also among fine wines poised for remarkable return on investment. The longevity potential it possesses is remarkable—a true collector's prize.

 

Intricacies underlined by an Italian nebbiolo soul

Upon decanting, the aromas reveal layers of harmonious complexity - an olfactory dalliance of black cherries, licorice, and truffle undertones— a salute to the characteristic expressions of its Nebbiolo roots.

This richly textured wine has aced the artful balance of opulence and elegance. Its harmonious symphony of flavors positions 2000 Sperss from Gaja as one of the most coveted and unique fine wines from Italy ripe for wine investment today.

Whether savored now or graciously aged further, each bottle gives a truly memorable testament to Gaja’s irrefutable skill and vision.

Current market price

£2,320.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

165.71

Scores and tasting notes

94

Gaja’s 2000 Sperss is wonderfully open and radiant. Layers of dark fruit, grilled herbs, cassis and smoke saturate the palate in this powerful, stunningly beautiful Sperss. Gorgeous inner perfume and a long, intense finish round things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. Angelo Gaja’s 2000s are a bit of a mystery. The wines were absolutely beautiful upon release and equally impressive when I tasted them a few years later for the 7th edition of Parker’s Wine Buyers Guide. The 2000s were far less convincing when I tasted them in November 2010. All of the wines were initially very reticent and closed. After an hour or two in the glass they opened for about 30 minutes before closing back down again. Gaja thinks the wines are passing through a stage of inaccessibility. If anyone deserves the benefit of the doubt it is Gaja. I can’t remember the last older wine from this cellar that was a disappointment or that hadn’t aged well, and I have been privileged to taste the vast majority of wines that have been made here under Angelo Gaja’s tenure. Time will ultimately tell where these wines are headed, but this was not an especially flattering showing for Gaja’s 2000s. That said, most producers would be thrilled to have wines like these in their cellars. In some ways, Gaja is a victim of his own success. He sets such a high bar with his finest vintages; it is only natural to expect greatness all the time. The 2000s fall a bit short of that mark but are quite strong in the context of the year.

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 1 May 2011

Vintage performance