2017 Barolo
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Tasting notes
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.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Layered and inviting aromatics lift from the 2017 Barolo, including kirsch, incense, and dried roses. The palate is highly refined yet also has generous fruit with a beautiful arch noted by cherry lozenge, dried apricot, and orange blossom. This is a remarkable and graceful wine from Elio Altare. Drink 2022-2042.
The 2017 Barolo is absolutely impeccable and shows why Altare remains at the top of the pack. Silky, aromatic and alluring, the 2017 is exquisitely beautiful. It is a bit lighter in body than usual, but that is very much in keeping with the style of the year. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries and rose petal grace the silky finish. The straight Barolo isa blend of sites in La Morra, Castiglione Falletto and Novello.