Controcorrente 2023 Vaira Aurelj

Controcorrente 2023 – Vaira Aurelj

The story of an unconventional Nebbiolo

Controcorrente 2023 is born in the heart of Piedmont as a personal expression by the Vaira brothers, a wine that steps away from the mainstream appellations to convey true creative freedom. Produced from a single 0.32-hectare vineyard planted with the rare Nebbiolo Rosé clone, it tells the story of the grape in a more delicate and direct key. The name “Controcorrente” – meaning “Against the current” – reflects their independent approach.

Vineyard philosophy: natural and low-yield

The 22-year-old vines grow on calcareous-clay soils, giving the wine both structure and freshness. Farming is natural, with a focus on soil health and biodiversity. Harvest is carried out manually in 25 kg perforated crates to preserve the grapes and allow careful selection. Yields are kept low to ensure aromatic concentration and consistent quality.

In the cellar: delicacy and respect for the fruit

Depending on the vintage, a portion of the grapes is crushed with the stems to enhance tannic and aromatic complexity. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature, without added sulphur, to maintain the Nebbiolo’s natural expression. Pressing is minimal, limited to 0.3 bar, to extract only the finest juice.

Ageing and final character

The wine ages for 6 months in neutral Slavonian oak casks, followed by another 6 months in bottle. Clarification occurs naturally over time, with no filtration. The result is a pure, elegant Nebbiolo that favours fruit and freshness over power.

Tasting notes and food pairings

Colour: bright, transparent ruby red.
Nose: fresh red berries, rose petals, subtle spice.
Palate: lively and juicy, with fine tannins, vibrant acidity, and a clean, persistent finish.
Perfect with artisanal cured meats, soft cheeses, white ragù pasta or simple tajarin with butter.

Technical Sheet

• Region: Piedmont

• Variety: 100% Nebbiolo Rosé clone

• Appellation: Red Wine

• Vineyard size: 0.32 ha

• Soil: Calcareous-clay

• Average vine age: 22 years

• Viticulture: Natural

• Harvest: Manual

• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation, partial stem use, minimal pressing (0.3 bar)

• Ageing: 6 months in neutral Slavonian oak + 6 months in bottle

• Clarification: Time

• Filtration: No

• SO₂ added: No

Vaira Aurelj – The Young Winemakers of the Langhe

The Story of Vaira Aurelj

Vaira Aurelj is the project of Azienda Agricola Vaira Francesco, led by brothers Francesco and Giacomo Vaira. Raised among the family’s vineyards, they decided to give a new identity to their work, focusing on personal and unconventional labels. The winery is located in Vergne, a small hamlet between Barolo, La Morra, and Narzole, in the heart of the Langhe. After gaining valuable experience in renowned wineries of the area, they set out to create wines that reflect their own vision—outside the rules of the big appellations, yet deeply rooted in local tradition.

Vineyard Philosophy: Authenticity and Respect for the Land

The Vaira Aurelj vineyards lie at around 450 meters above sea level, with sunny exposures and calcareous-clay soils that ensure a perfect balance between freshness and structure. Vineyard management follows a natural and eco-friendly approach, using minimal treatments and preserving biodiversity. Harvesting is carried out by hand to select only the best bunches, with deliberately low yields to enhance concentration and aromatic expression.

Cellar Approach: Wines Against the Current

In the cellar, the philosophy remains the same: spontaneous fermentations, minimal use of sulphur, and no invasive interventions. Production focuses on artisanal, character-driven wines such as “Controcorrente” and “FZ,” personal interpretations of Nebbiolo crafted with finesse and personality. The goal is to preserve the true expression of the grape and soil, without filtration or clarification, allowing time and patience to shape the wine.

The Soul of Vaira Aurelj

The essence of Vaira Aurelj lies in crafting honest wines that convey the truth of a vintage and a vineyard without compromise. Production is intentionally limited to guarantee quality and care at every stage. Each bottle reflects the authentic character of the Vaira brothers and the Langhe, an invitation to discover a more intimate and genuine side of Piedmont winemaking.