FZ Fuori Zona 2023 Vaira Aurelj

FZ – Fuori Zona 2023 – Vaira Aurelj

Origin and identity of the wine

FZ, short for Fuori Zona, is Vaira Francesco’s pure expression of Nebbiolo, crafted exclusively from the renowned Lampia clone. This clone, the foundation of the finest Barolo wines, is famous for its aromatic finesse, elegant structure, and remarkable ageing potential. With FZ 2023, the winery offers a personal and authentic interpretation of Nebbiolo, going beyond traditional borders while staying true to the grape’s essence.

Terroir and vineyards

The vineyards, with an average age of 22 years, grow on predominantly calcareous-clay soils, ideal for giving the wine balance and complexity. Vineyard management is natural and meticulous, with manual harvesting in 25 kg crates. Each bunch is carefully selected, removing any impurities to ensure pristine and high-quality grapes.

Winemaking and ageing

Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the pure aromatic profile of Nebbiolo. A gentle, low-pressure pressing follows, maintaining fine, silky tannins. Ageing lasts 12 months: 40% of the wine in new barrels and 60% in used barrels, before bottling without fining or filtration. The wine then rests for an additional 6 months in bottle, achieving perfect harmony between structure and freshness.

Sensory profile

Colour: bright ruby red with subtle garnet hues.
Nose: elegant aromas of dried rose, raspberry, and ripe cherry, complemented by sweet spices and a delicate balsamic note.
Palate: present yet harmonious tannins, medium body with good depth, long and refined finish.

Food pairings

Perfect with Piedmontese classics such as braised beef with Nebbiolo, as well as beef tagliata, game birds, and aged hard cheeses. Excellent also with structured first courses such as tajarin with meat ragù.

Technical sheet

• Producer: Vaira Aurelj – Azienda Agricola Vaira Francesco

• Vintage: 2023

• Region: Piedmont

• Grape variety: 100% Nebbiolo Lampia clone

• Soil: Calcareous-clay

• Average vine age: 22 years

• Harvest: Manual, in 25 kg crates

• Vinification: Stainless steel at controlled temperature, gentle pressing at 0.3 bar

• Ageing: 12 months (40% new barrels, 60% used barrels) + 6 months in bottle

• Fining: None

• Filtration: None

• Alcohol: 13.5%

• Serving temperature: 16–18 °C

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.