Elio Altare: Barolo Brunate 1999-2001

Elio Altare realized a long-standing dream when he began to
produce a Barolo from this storied vineyard.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp; While all the wines are
outstanding, the 1999 is truly special.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp; Very soft and supple, with lots
of ripe dark red and black fruit, this seamless and well-integrated Barolo is
extremely long.&nbsp; This shut down quickly
in the glass and my score may prove to be conservative. An absolute
beauty.&nbsp; 94 points/drink after 2011,
12/04

2000 Elio Altare Barolo Brunate—Translucent dark ruby.&nbsp; Sweet, aromatic nose of spices, anise, and
eucalyptus.&nbsp; The palate shows generous
amounts of ripe, somewhat evolved red fruits and a soft mouthfeel.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Huge, masculine nose of flowers, menthol,
eucalyptus, spices, licorice and minerals.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp; Easily the most complex and
interesting of the three wines.&nbsp; Highly
recommended.&nbsp; 96 points/drink after 2009,
12/04-- Antonio Galloni

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