The 2006 Barolo is a medium-bodied offering with attractive, perfumed fruit. Though somewhat slender, the wine offers excellent balance, albeit in a smaller-scaled style than is normally the case. The wine opens up nicely in the glass, yet it remains a touch compact. Over nearly a decade of visiting Altare on a regular basis I have tasted just about every wine made here, including many from lesser vintages. The surprises have always been on the upside, so it will be interesting to see what happens here. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. The 2006 harvest was not kind to Elio Altare. Despite having diversified his Nebbiolo holdings across three villages – La Morra, Castiglione Falletto and Serralunga – Altare had significant hail damage in all of his best parcels. Altare felt the fruit he was able to bring in wasn’t suitable for his single-vineyard Barolos, so he opted to make only his straight Barolo. Altare fans can take some comfort with the late-release 2005 Barolo Cerretta. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

Ripe, featuring plum and black cherry flavors, laced with spice and tobacco. This is kept honest by the upright tannins and lively acidity. There is power, but also grace. Fine length. Best from 2013 through 2025. 1,000 cases made, 541 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add