Angelo Gaja is probably one of the greatest names in Italian winemaking. Born in 1940, he took over the family vineyard in 1961 in the hilly Langhe region of the Piedmont which can trace its roots back to 1859. He now manages approximately 100 hectares of wines and does not buy in any grapes. Gaja was instrumental in raising the international profile of fine Piedmontese wines, notably Barbarescos and Barolos, with his distinctive use of new vinification techniques and ageing methods, at odds with regional practices at the time: choosing the best parcels, reducing yields, and using new French oak casks instead of Yugoslavian oak barrels. His best Barbaresco parcels now produce some of the finest wines in Italy (Sori Tildin, Sori San Lorenzo, and Costa Russi). He was also the first winegrower to plant Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, as well as Sauvignon Blanc instead of Nebbiolo, contrary to the advice of his peers.

Tildin was the nickname given to Angelo Gaja's grandmother (her full name was Clothilde Rey). The Sori Tildin vineyard is located in the village of Barbaresco. The estate has belonged to the Gaja family since 1934. For this cuvée, malolactic fermentation is carried out in barrels. The wine is then aged for 12 months in barrels followed by 12 months in casks. This Nebbiolo is a shining example of balance and elegance, with incredible ageing potential. Delicate, distinguished tannins, floral aromas and notes of red berries in its formative stages and beautiful balance and a persistent end note: all the right ingredients are there.