The Gaja family of winemakers: a winemaking dynasty from Barbaresco - Origins in Spain and beginnings in Barbaresco
The history of the Gaja family dates back to the 17th century, when they came to Italy from Spain. In 1859 Giovanni Gaja founded the winery in Barbaresco. Originally he ran a tavern and served his own wines with meals. Already in the late 19th century, the winery supplied bottled wines to the Italian army in Abyssinia, an unusual move at the time.
The Angelo Gaja era
Angelo Gaja, who took over the winery from his father in 1961, revolutionized winemaking. He introduced state-of-the-art techniques, inspired by his travels to France, and relied on international grape varieties previously unknown in the region. He was also innovative in cellar techniques, using French oak barrels.
Marketing and prestige of Angelo Gaja wines
Angelo Gaja placed great emphasis on the marketing of his wines and introduced high prices at Grand Cru level to emphasize the exceptional quality of his wines. The winery produced for the first time site wines such as Sorí San Lorenzo, Sorí Tildin and Costa Russi.
Expansion and new grape varieties from Angelo Gaja
The winery expanded its vineyards in Barolo, Montalcino and Tuscany. Angelo Gaja even planted international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Return to Barbaresco
After a period of lower quality levels, the winery returned to Barbaresco, but Angelo Gaja remained faithful to his quality standards. Today, his daughters Gaia and Rossana manage the day-to-day operations of the company.
