G.D. Vajra Della Neve Sparkling Brut Rose 750ml – Piedmont's Mountain Sparkler Meets Maryland

Updated → November 2025

This prestigious Italian Metodo Classico rosé sparkler blends Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir from high-altitude Piedmont vineyards, aged 4+ years on lees for exceptional complexity. Now available at Bel Pre Beer & Wine in Silver Spring for your celebrations.

What makes G.D. Vajra Della Neve Sparkling Brut Rose 750ml stand out

Picture a sparkling wine born in the highest vineyards of Barolo, where Nebbiolo vines cling to steep hillsides that have been worked by hand for generations. G.D. Vajra Della Neve Sparkling Brut Rose represents a fascinating paradox in Italian winemaking – taking Nebbiolo, the grape famous for powerful Barolo reds, and transforming it into an ethereal rosé sparkler through the meticulous Metodo Classico process. Named after the Nostra Signora Della Neve (Our Lady of the Snow) chapel that watches over the vineyards, this wine spends over four years aging on its lees, developing layers of complexity that rival the finest traditional method sparklers worldwide. The Vajra family's organic farming practices and high-altitude terroir create a wine that expresses both the decisive character of Nebbiolo and the gentle elegance of Pinot Noir in every glass.

Market overview

Italian Metodo Classico sparkling wines have emerged from the shadows of Champagne and Prosecco to claim their rightful place among the world's finest bubbles. The category has seen remarkable growth, with Piedmont leading the charge as producers leverage their historic grape varieties and mountain terroirs. In the $30–60 price range, these wines offer exceptional value compared to equivalent-quality Champagne, which often costs double. The trend toward traditional method sparklers from unexpected regions has accelerated, with sommeliers and collectors seeking alternatives that showcase unique terroir and indigenous varieties. G.D. Vajra sits at the forefront of this movement, representing a new generation of Italian sparkling wines that maintain rigorous production standards while expressing distinctly Italian character. The American market has shown particular enthusiasm for these wines, with imports of premium Italian sparklers growing by double digits annually.

Style & flavor profile

The first impression of this sparkling rosé reveals dusty rose petals and crushed wild strawberries, followed by an unexpected hint of lime zest that adds brightness to the aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine showcases remarkable finesse – the bubbles are fine and persistent, creating a creamy texture that carries flavors of red raspberries, blood orange, and subtle baking spices. The minerality is striking, almost saline in character, reflecting the poor calcareous soils of the high-altitude vineyards. At approximately 11.5% alcohol, it maintains freshness and elegance without sacrificing complexity. The Extra Brut designation means minimal dosage, allowing the pure fruit character and terroir to shine through. The finish is long and floral, with hints of white cherry and almond that linger pleasantly. This combination of Nebbiolo's structure and aromatic intensity with Pinot Noir's elegance creates a sparkling wine that's both refreshing and contemplative.

How it's made

The production of Della Neve follows the prestigious Metodo Classico, identical to Champagne's traditional method. The journey begins in the Nostra Signora Della Neve vineyard in Roddino, at the confluence of the Barolo and Alta Langa zones, where vines grow at elevations reaching 1,585 feet. The steep slopes require all work to be done by hand, from pruning to harvest. The base wines are created through gentle pressing and cool fermentation to preserve aromatic compounds. After blending Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir, the wine undergoes its second fermentation in bottle with the addition of yeast and sugar (tirage). What sets this wine apart is the extended aging – a minimum of four years on the lees compared to the 15 months required for non-vintage Champagne. During this time, the dead yeast cells (lees) impart complexity, creating notes of brioche and hazelnut while the bubbles become increasingly fine. The bottles are riddled by hand to consolidate the sediment, then disgorged to remove the yeast, receiving minimal dosage to maintain the Extra Brut style before final corking.

Food pairings

• Raw oysters and crudo: The wine's mineral, almost briny character and bright acidity create a perfect harmony with raw seafood, while the delicate bubbles cleanse the palate between bites
• Prosciutto and aged cheeses: The combination of fruit and savory notes bridges beautifully with cured meats and Parmigiano-Reggiano, highlighting both the wine's structure and the food's umami richness
• Sushi and sashimi: The wine's precision and freshness complement the delicate flavors of raw fish, while its subtle fruit notes pair wonderfully with pickled ginger and wasabi's heat
• Grilled salmon with herbs: The wine's body stands up to richer fish preparations, while its acidity cuts through the oils and the rosé color creates a beautiful visual pairing
• Summer berry desserts: The dry style and red fruit notes create an elegant counterpoint to lightly sweetened strawberry tarts or raspberry sorbets

How to serve

Temperature is crucial for showcasing this wine's complexity – serve between 46–50°F (8–10°C), slightly warmer than typical sparkling wine service to allow the aromatic compounds to express fully. Use tulip-shaped Champagne flutes or white wine glasses rather than coupes to preserve the bubbles and concentrate the aromatics. No decanting is necessary, but if the wine has been stored horizontally for extended periods, stand the bottle upright for 30 minutes before opening to let any sediment settle. Open carefully using the traditional Champagne method: remove the foil, loosen the cage while keeping your thumb on the cork, and twist the bottle (not the cork) while holding it at a 45-degree angle. The cork should release with a gentle sigh rather than a pop. Pour in two stages – a small initial pour that will foam up, followed by topping off once the foam settles.

Cocktails & mixing

Classic serve

For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve G.D. Vajra Della Neve pure in a flute with a single raspberry dropped into the glass. The berry will slowly release its color and add a touch of sweetness while the bubbles create a mesmerizing display. This presentation highlights the wine's natural beauty and complexity without masking its character.

Signature serve - Piedmont Royale

Create an Italian twist on the Kir Royale by adding 1/4 oz of Crème de Framboise (raspberry liqueur) and a splash of Aperol to a flute, then top with the chilled sparkling rosé. Garnish with a twist of blood orange peel. The Aperol adds a subtle bitter note that complements the wine's minerality, while the raspberry liqueur enhances the fruit character without overwhelming the delicate bubbles. Measurements: 1/4 oz Crème de Framboise, 1/4 oz Aperol, 4 oz G.D. Vajra Della Neve, served in a Champagne flute.

Buying guide

When purchasing this wine, look for the distinctive G.D. Vajra label featuring elegant script and the N.S. della Neve designation. The wine is non-vintage (NV), meaning it's a blend of multiple years to achieve consistency. Check the disgorgement date if available – while the wine can age gracefully, most producers recommend enjoying it within 1–2 years of disgorgement for optimal freshness. The Extra Brut designation on the label confirms the dry style with minimal dosage. Authentic bottles will have the traditional Champagne-style cork and wire cage (muselet), and the bottle will be heavier than standard wine bottles to withstand the pressure. The back label should indicate Metodo Classico production and the blend of Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir. At retail, expect to pay between $35–60, with prices varying based on location and availability. This represents excellent value compared to similar-quality traditional method sparklers from more famous regions.

Comparisons vs. similar products

G.D. Vajra Della Neve vs. Franciacorta Rosé

While both are Italian Metodo Classico rosés, Franciacorta typically uses Pinot Nero exclusively and comes from Lombardy's lake district. The Della Neve's inclusion of Nebbiolo gives it more structure and aromatic complexity, with distinctive floral and tar notes absent in Franciacorta. The mountain terroir also provides higher acidity and more pronounced minerality. Choose Della Neve for food pairings and when seeking unique character; choose Franciacorta for a more internationally styled, Champagne-like experience.

G.D. Vajra Della Neve vs. Crémant de Loire Rosé

French Crémant de Loire rosés typically feature Cabernet Franc and offer a lighter, more delicate style with red berry fruit and herbaceous notes. The Della Neve shows more concentration and structure thanks to Nebbiolo, with greater aging potential and complexity from extended lees contact. The Italian wine's four-year aging also surpasses the nine-month minimum for Crémant. Choose Della Neve for special occasions and richer food pairings; choose Crémant for casual aperitif drinking and lighter fare.

Collector & aging notes

While designed to be enjoyed upon release, this wine can evolve beautifully for 3–5 years post-disgorgement if stored properly. The extended lees aging means much of the development has already occurred, but properly cellared bottles will gain additional complexity, developing notes of toasted hazelnuts, honey, and dried flowers. The wine's high acidity and structured Nebbiolo component provide the backbone for aging. This is not produced in limited quantities like vintage Champagne, making it accessible for regular enjoyment rather than investment. The non-vintage nature means consistent availability, though specific disgorgement dates may vary. Store bottles horizontally in a cool (55°F), dark place with minimal vibration. The Vajra family's commitment to traditional methods and organic farming suggests these wines will maintain quality standards across different releases, making them reliable choices for laying down several bottles.

Occasions & gifting

The elegant presentation and unique provenance of G.D. Vajra Della Neve make it an exceptional gift for wine enthusiasts who appreciate discovering lesser-known gems. Perfect for Valentine's Day or anniversaries thanks to its romantic pink hue and the "Our Lady of the Snow" story. The wine's versatility makes it ideal for wedding toasts, where its dry style appeals to sophisticated palates while the color adds visual drama. Consider it for summer garden parties, where its freshness and moderate alcohol shine. It's particularly appropriate for Italian-themed celebrations or as a hostess gift for dinner parties featuring seafood or charcuterie. The wine's complexity also makes it suitable for contemplative occasions like intimate dinners or sunset viewing, where its evolving character can be fully appreciated over time.

Storage & shelf life

Once purchased, store unopened bottles away from light and heat, ideally at 55–60°F with 70% humidity. The wine is stable and can be kept upright for short periods, though horizontal storage is preferred for longer-term cellaring. After opening, the wine will maintain its quality for 3–5 days if resealed with a Champagne stopper and refrigerated – the complex structure and lower dosage help preserve freshness longer than sweeter sparklers. Unlike still wines, sparkling wines are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so avoid storing near heating vents or in areas with variable temperatures. The dark glass bottle provides some UV protection, but direct sunlight should always be avoided. While there's no official “best by” date, these wines are at their peak within 1–2 years of disgorgement, though well-stored bottles can remain enjoyable for 5+ years, developing tertiary notes of brioche, mushroom, and truffle.

Local availability at our store

Check current stock levels and explore pickup options at Bel Pre Beer & Wine. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect bottle and suggest complementary items for your celebration. We maintain proper storage conditions to ensure every bottle arrives in perfect condition. Special orders may be available for case purchases – inquire in-store for volume discounts.

Where to buy

Grab G.D. Vajra Della Neve Sparkling Brut Rose 750ml now from our online shop. Visit https://www.belprefinewine.com/ for curbside pickup, delivery zones, and more. Our Silver Spring location offers convenient access from throughout the DC metro area.