Representing a blend of fruit from Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, La Morra and Novello, the Elio Altare 2017 Barolo sets off the vintage on the right foot. Of course, 2017 delivered all kinds of extreme weather, from frost to dry heat, but this battle-ready Barolo emerges unscathed. Save for the high 15% alcohol content, this wine avoids the classic trappings of a hot vintage. The fruit is not dried out, nor is it jammy. Indeed, this wine shows better balance than most, with a lovely freshness to all that dark and luscious fruit.

This red flashes a robust profile, offering dense tannins and texture, all framing cherry, plum, iron, tobacco and spice notes. Winds down gracefully on the finish, with ample fruit flavors to match its structure. Best from 2024 through 2038. 833 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add