2012 Barolo

Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Quite concentrated spicy cherry nose with hints of baking spice, followed by an almost feather-light palate with a firm tannic grip. Pretty yet muscular and with lightness of touch, summing up the characteristics of the 2012 vintage. (WS)

Altare's 2012 Barolo is soft, open-knit and succulent. Sweet floral notes meld into red-fleshed berries, tobacco, mint, licorice and spices. Silky tannins and a sense of freshness give the 2012 much of its early appeal. This is an especially gracious, mid-weight style for Altare. This soft, easygoing Barolo should drink well pretty much upon release. The Barolo is made from a collection of plots in La Morra, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga and Barolo. This is the second vintage that includes Liste in the blend.

With fruit from La Morra, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Barolo, Elio Altare's 2012 Barolo is a classic expression of the vintage. Fruit from each township is vinified separately and after the malolactic fermentation, the wine goes into neutral oak. The wine exhibits less baby fat compared to the 2011 vintage and its color is not as deep or black. The aromatic intensity of the wine is also carefully delivered and more subtle. This is an elegant, food-friendly Barolo that can be consumed in the medium-term. Jun 2016, www.robertparker.com