DOCG. Barolo (Piedmont), Italy - 96-98 PARKER. 100% Nebbiolo. One of the most prestigious single-vineyard Barolos from Piedmontese producer Elio Altare, a key figure in the so-called "modern revolution" of Barolo. It is produced in the Barolo DOCG appellation, in the heart of the Langhe mountains in northwestern Italy.
The wine originates from the Cerretta cru, located in the municipality of Serralunga d'Alba, one of the most historically structured and long-established Barolo areas. The specific plot, called Vigna Bricco, is located at the highest point of the vineyard, with predominantly south, southeast, and southwest exposures, which favors the complete ripening of the Nebbiolo grapes. The soils are composed of calcareous marls, sandstones, and clay components, which typically produce powerful, deep Barolos with great aging potential.
The harvest is carried out manually at the optimal moment of ripeness to preserve the aromatic precision of the variety.
In the winery, the approach reflects the modern style that Altare introduced to Barolo in the 1980s. The grapes ferment with indigenous yeasts and undergo a relatively short maceration of about 4-5 days with temperature control, often using rotary fermenters to achieve precise extraction without excessive rusticity. The wine is then aged for 24 months in French oak barrels (approximately 30% new) before bottling.
As a Barolo Riserva, this wine is only produced in vintages considered exceptional and requires a longer minimum aging period before release, allowing for greater complexity and structure to develop. The 2019 vintage, considered a high-balanced Barolo, resulted in a wine of remarkable concentration and aging potential.
On the palate, it displays ripe black fruit, cherry, and plum, along with notes of licorice, tobacco, spices, violets, and balsamic nuances, with firm yet polished tannins and a long, deep finish typical of Serralunga. Recommended by The Sommelier.
