Elio Altare Barolo 2021

Elio Altare, a prominent member of the "Barolo Boys," revolutionized winemaking in Barolo by introducing modern techniques, such as shorter fermentation times and aging in French oak barrels. His goal was to create Barolo wines with the elegance and longevity of Burgundy wines, which he successfully achieved. Originally from Dogliani, the Altare family established themselves in La Morra in 1948, expanding their vineyards over the years to include prestigious locations like Arborina, Canubi, and Cerretta Vigna Bricco. They cultivate 12 hectares of premium land organically and sustainably.

For this "Barolo" (the classic introduction Barolo), he blends grapes from different top vineyards in La Morra. These include Arborina, Cerretta, and a few others depending on the vintage. By blending these different crus, he creates a wine that shows the soft, floral, and silky style of La Morra Barolo. His vision is to make Barolo more drinkable at a younger age, with less oak and more purity of fruit, while still showing the strength and beauty of Nebbiolo.

The 2021 vintage in Barolo was very promising. The weather was balanced with a cool spring and a warm, dry summer. This helped the Nebbiolo grapes grow slowly and ripen perfectly. At Elio Altare, this meant wines with beautiful aromas, fresh acidity, and great balance. For Elio and his daughter Silvia, 2021 was a vintage that brought back the classic style of Barolo, elegant but powerful. It gave them the chance to make wines that will age well but also give a lot of pleasure in the first years after release.