2013 Elio Altare, Barolo

Here's a classic expression of Nebbiolo that sees fruit sourced from four vineyard sites spanning the appellation. The 2013 Barolo is a wine of beautiful intensity and grace. The bouquet reveals a layered effect in which primary fruit aromas of cherry and blackberry segue in quick succession to spice, tar, licorice and toasted hazelnut. The wine offers strength and power, especially in terms of the full and generous way it spreads clear over the palate. There is a spot of heaviness or extra density on the finish. This wine needs a year or two to iron itself out.

The 2013 Barolo is round, supple and inviting. Sweet red cherry, plum, spice and tobacco notes infuse this soft, approachable Barolo. Silky tannins add to the wine's considerable appeal. The 2013 will drink well with minimal cellaring, but this wine also has a way of aging effortlessly for years. Vineyard sources are Rocchettevino, Pernanno, Cerretta and Liste.