Altare Barolo

From the winery:

"Grandpa Giuseppe came to la Morra in 1948. The family Altare was originally from the town of Dogliani, then the farm in La Morra was bought. Back then the estate covered 5 hectares of nebbiolo, barbera and dolcetto vineyards, along with some peach, hazelnut and apple trees.

"Those were times when orchards gave higher yield and more profit than vineyards. Elio's father Giovanni didn't understand him. His son's radical decisions were too far from his way of thinking. Being from an older generation and poorer times, he was not able to accept what he thought was an offense against

common sense and tradition, and because of their different opinions, Giovanni and Elio’s relationship fell into silence.

"He died in 1985 and tragically disinherited Elio.  Elio continued to work while he bought back the winery and vineyards from his siblings. Elio stood firm then and still does today. Stubbornly he decided to change direction and give a different interpretation to the family's wine, favouring elegance, finesse, and balance, following a strict regime in the vineyards, adopting new vinification and aging techniques in the cellar.

Elio's daughter Silvia now helms the winery, under the watchful eyes and helpful hands of her father."

Critical acclaim:

"94 points. A classic expression from vintner Elio Altare and his talented team, the 2018 Barolo is an elegant and streamlined wine. It is made from a blend of fruit from various parcels in Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, La Morra and Novello (with 11,700 bottles produced in this vintage). Aged in neutral barrique for 24 months, the wine shows a linear and focused personality with tart cherry, aniseed, crushed rock and blue flower. It's best suited for near or medium-term consumption." - Wine Advocate

"94 points. This is delicate with aromas of cherries, chocolate, cinnamon, dried orange peel and nutmeg. Medium- to full-bodied with firm, slightly chewy yet juicy tannins. Lively and toned with lots of energy and fresh cherries, blood orange and crushed stones. Builds up nicely on the palate to show real power." - James Suckling