1999 Elio Altare Langhe La Villa

(the Larigi is all barbera, while this is a blend of nebbiolo and barbera) Deep medium ruby. Slightly roasted yet pure aromas of black cherry, blueberry, licorice and mint. Rich, fat and broad on entry, then tighter and less sweet in the middle than the Larigi. Intense black cherry flavor is complicated on the very long, firm finish by notes of blackberry, bitter chocolate and espresso. Tannins are quite firm, in the style of the vintage.