Elio Altare: Barolo Brunate 1999-2001

Elio Altare realized a long-standing dream when he began to produce a Barolo from this storied vineyard.  This mini-vertical of Altare’s Barolo Brunate was very insightful in gaining a better of sense of the characteristics of the 1999-2001 vintages.  While all the wines are outstanding, the 1999 is truly special.  Of his 1999, Altare says it is “probably the best I have made so far.”

2001 Elio Altare Barolo Brunate—Saturated dark ruby. Complex and multi-dimenional nose of licorice, tar, eucalyptus, cocoa, and wet earth.  Very soft and supple, with lots of ripe dark red and black fruit, this seamless and well-integrated Barolo is extremely long.  This shut down quickly in the glass and my score may prove to be conservative. An absolute beauty.  94 points/drink after 2011, 12/04

2000 Elio Altare Barolo Brunate—Translucent dark ruby.  Sweet, aromatic nose of spices, anise, and eucalyptus.  The palate shows generous amounts of ripe, somewhat evolved red fruits and a soft mouthfeel.  This is a beautiful wine of great harmony and balance. 93 points/drink after 2007, 12/04

1999 Elio Altare Barolo Brunate—Lively dark ruby.  Huge, masculine nose of flowers, menthol, eucalyptus, spices, licorice and minerals.  Not as ripe as the 2000 but showing superb length on the palate and more clearly defined and delineated flavors of dark rich red fruits, with a balsamic note on the finish. An ethereal, austere and classic Barolo with lots of nuance.  Easily the most complex and interesting of the three wines.  Highly recommended.  96 points/drink after 2009, 12/04

-- Antonio Galloni