Why did Angelo Gaja begin labeling his wines under the Langhe designation?

Angelo Gaja began labeling his wines under the Langhe designation primarily to avoid the strict regulations imposed by the DOCG laws of Barbaresco. The Barbaresco DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) enforces specific criteria regarding grape varieties, vineyard locations, and aging requirements that can be quite limiting. By choosing to label his wines as Langhe, Gaja was able to exercise greater flexibility in his winemaking process, allowing him to experiment with different grape blends and production methods that did not conform to the traditional Barbaresco standards. This decision ultimately enabled him to produce wines that reflect his innovative vision and style, enhancing the quality and distinctiveness of his offerings beyond the constraints of the DOCG regulations.