Name: Elio Altare Barolo Arborina 2017 750ml
Brand: Elio Altare
SKU: 900966
Price: 138.89 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 94.8 (4 reviews)

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Winery Elio Altare

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Varietal Nebbiolo

The Nebbiolo grape varietal is widely understood to be the fruit responsible for Italy's finest aged wines. However, its popularity and reliability as a grape which gives out outstanding flavors and aromas has led it to be planted in many countries around the world, with much success. These purple grapes are distinguishable by the fact that they take on a milky dust as they begin to reach maturity, leading many to claim that this is the reason for their unusual name, which means 'fog' in Italian. Nebbiolo grapes produce wines which have a wide range of beautiful and fascinating flavors, the most common of which are rich, dark and complex, such as violet, truffle, tobacco and prunes. They are generally aged for many years to balance out their characteristics, as their natural tannin levels tend to be very high.

Country Italy

There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.

Region Piedmont

Situated in the north-western part of Italy, the region of Piedmont is known worldwide and is highly respected for the quality of the wines produced there. Many of the most successful sub-regions in Piedmont produce many of the world's finest red wines, such as those made from the excellent Nebbiolo grape varietal in areas such as Barolo and Barbaresco. However, the historic wineries which typify this region use a relatively wide variety of grapes, including Dolcetto and Barbera for their red wines, which are typically aged and have a delightful velvety character. Piedmont isn't all about beautifully complex red wines, though, as it is also famed for high quality, elegant sparkling wines, notably the Asti wines made with the white Moscato grape. The region benefits from a range of terroirs which are often well expressed in the sparkling wines, and a wonderfully consistent climate ideal for vineyard cultivation.

Appellation Barolo

Barolo’s star grape is Nebbiolo, a finicky yet expressive variety that reaches its zenith this unique terroir. The region’s distinct microclimates and soils contribute to Nebbiolo’s complexity, resulting in wines with robust tannins, high acidity, and exceptional aging potential. Barolo wines, often referred to as “the king of wines,” are characterized by their deep garnet hue and complex bouquet, offering aromas of roses, tar, truffles, and red fruit. The aging process is significant, requiring at least 38 months, with a minimum of 18 months spent in wooden casks. This meticulous craftsmanship results in wines that evolve beautifully over time, displaying a harmonious balance of power and finesse. For wine enthusiasts, exploring Barolo provides a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Italian winemaking, showcasing the profound marriage of tradition, terroir, and Nebbiolo’s distinctive expression.

JD 97pts

Jeb Dunnuck

The 2017 Barolo Arborina is introspective on opening, before beginning to unfurl and release a bouquet of cassis, espresso, brushed leather, and violets. The palate is full without weight and is inviting with ripe black cherry, cocoa powder, and cedar. The tannins are fine and polished, with an undeniable luxurious quality and refinement. Hold 3-5 years and drink 2025-2050.

VM 95pts

Vinous Media

The 2017 Barolo Arborina is creamy, ample and sensual. In 2017, the flavor profile is a bit darker than usual, but all the elements are so impeccably balanced. A wine of total harmony and class, the 2017 dazzles right from the get go. There is a bit of French oak that needs time to integrate, but that won't be an issue, as these wines have a track record of aging at least a few decades with no problems.

WA 94pts

Wine Advocate

From the Altare family's historic cru that extends from right under the panoramic platform at the main house and the tasting room, comes this homegrown and classic wine. The 2017 Barolo Arborina opens to an immediate note of bold cherry and redcurrant that is lifted and pure. That fruit intensity is followed softly by leather, sweet tobacco and crushed flowers. Arborina offers terrific intensity and smoothing textural richness that embraces the concentrated style of the vintage.

WS 93pts

Wine Spectator

A ripe style, though a touch volatile, this red delivers cherry, plum, iron, tar notes and hints of vanilla and toasty oak. Firm and dense, yet balanced, with a long aftertaste of fruit and spice. Best from 2025 through 2040. 350 cases made, 105 cases imported.

Winery Notes

Color: Very intense ruby red with garnet reflections. Nose: Fresh nose, rose petals, flowers, ethereal, light, sweet. Taste: Warm and elegant, with smooth but intense tannins.