Elio Altare 2017 Barolo, Cannubi, DOCG

Elio Altare 2017 Barolo, Cannubi, DOCG

Item Number: 16057

UPC: None

Country: Italy
Region: Piedmont
Sub Region: Langhe
Appellation/AVA: Barolo DOCG
Estate Grown Wine: No
Vineyard Designation: Cannubi Vineyard
Vintage: 2017
Grape(s): 100% Nebbiolo
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 6
Closure: Cork
Alc by Vol(%): 15
Viticulture: Practicing Organic
Soil Type: Marna with clay and sand

Barolo Subregion: Barolo
Vine Age: About 30 years old; Silvia rents 0.25 hectares of vines; farming is organic and done by the Altare team

Vintage Notes from Vinous February 2021: "Altare's 2017 Barolos are gorgeous, must-have wines for the year. The 2017s stand out for their exceptional balance, especially in the tannins, and that places them at the very top of the pack. Farming is meticulous, as it always is. According to Silvia Altare, 'The key to the vintage was picking early in order to maintain as much freshness as possible. We did three passes in most vineyards, so that we could capture a full spectrum of ripeness levels in the blends.'"

Vinification Notes: The Nebbiolo macerates on the skins for approximately 4-5 days in rotary fermenters with temperature control. The wine ages for 24 months in a mix of new and neutral French barriques. Fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeast as does the malolactic fermentation. The wine is not fined, filtered, or clarified. No substances that could modify the color or the structure of the wine is ever used.

Tasting Notes: Soft, silky tannins; fresh to the nose with fresh fruits, rose petals and flowers

Reviews

  • The Wine Advocate
    Rating: 95 (6/17/2021)
    The Elio Altare 2017 Barolo Cannubi is emerging as a top wine from this celebrated estate even though its first year of production was as recent as 2011. The Cannubi shows an extra level of finesse and pedigree that is fundamentally specific to this site, and of course, it takes a winemaker with vision to pull out the best and most nuanced side of this celebrated cru. This hot-vintage expression is especially impressive. Despite the high 15% alcohol content, the wine remains forever smooth and silky. Silvia Altare, and her dad Elio in a second degree, take ownership of this success.
  • Vinous
    Rating: 95 (2/1/2021)
    The 2017 Barolo Cannubi is a dense, powerful wine. In most vintages, the Cannubi is gracious and finessed, but the 2017 packs a serious punch. Intense fruit and equally imposing tannins drive through to the finish. The 2017 needs time to come together, but it is not likely to ever be an easy wine. Mint, white pepper and flowers add a bright upper register to the red-toned fruit.
  • The Wine Spectator
    Rating: 95 (4/30/2022)
    Succulent cherry and plum fruit is framed by vanilla and toasty oak in this sleek, expressive red. Hints of tea, hay and tobacco add complexity as this winds down gracefully on the long finish. Firmly structured, with well-integrated tannins. Best from 2024 through 2042. 38 cases imported to the USA.