2010 Elio Altare - Vigna Arborina
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Tasting notes
(nebbiolo; done entirely in new barriques): Bright, moderately saturated red. The least expressive of this trio of barrique-aged wines, hinting at licorice, menthol and graphite. Reticent in the mouth as well, but the wine's sappy minerality and strong acid spine are already impressive. This very dense, long nebbiolo is still a baby. Superb potential here.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2010 Langhe Arborina (Nebbiolo) is another extraordinary effort. Sweet red berries, crushed flowers, mint and licorice literally jump from the glass. Here, too, the wine's balance is exceptional. Expressive floral notes add lift to a finish framed by the most finessed, silky tannins imaginable. The pedigree of the vintage comes through in spades. All I can say is: Wow!