1988 Elio Altare Barolo Arborina
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The 1988 Barolo Vigneto Arborina stands out for its forward, decidedly fruit-driven style. Soft, pliant and super-expressive, the 1988 is wonderfully expressive today. Hints of leather, smoke, tobacco, cedar and crushed flowers add nuance on the finish. The 1988 saw just four days on the skins and was the last Barolo aged partly in cask. Even today, the 1988 retains gorgeous freshness and delineation.
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Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Altare's stunning 1988 Barolo-Arborina is a brilliant example of Nebbiolo. The deep black/ruby color and huge nose of black fruits, tar, and spices are followed by a wine with explosive richness, layer upon layer of dense, chewy Nebbiolo fruit, and a blockbuster, moderately tannic, phenomenally long finish. If you are able, defer your gratification until the mid-nineties, then be prepared to experience the magic over the following 12-15 years. Altare is making some of the most magnificent wines in Italy. His Barberas represent my favorite expression of this grape. Importer: A Marc de Grazia Selection, Consensus Selections, Philadelphia, PA.