A classic expression from vintner Elio Altare and his talented team, the 2018 Barolo is an elegant and streamlined wine. It is made from a blend of fruit from various parcels in Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, La Morra and Novello (with 11,700 bottles produced in this vintage). Aged in neutral barrique for 24 months, the wine shows a linear and focused personality with tart cherry, aniseed, crushed rock and blue flower. It's best suited for near or medium-term consumption.
94 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Aug 2022)
This is delicate with aromas of cherries, chocolate, cinnamon, dried orange peel and nutmeg. Medium- to full-bodied with firm, slightly chewy yet juicy tannins. Lively and toned with lots of energy and fresh cherries, blood orange and crushed stones. Builds up nicely on the palate to show real power. Better from 2025.
94 points, James Suckling (Jan 2023)
The 2018 Elio Altare Barolo is very fragrant, with hints of crushed iris, meadow flowers and spices. This is followed by oak spice, nutmeg and cinnamon notes. Comparing this with the 2017, I like the 2018 much better. The tannins are even finer and less dry and there is a nice, pleasing freshness and juiciness on the finish. The wine feels less heavy and dense than the 2017 and so it flows pleasantly and easily across the palate. Wait one to two years, drink for up 15-20.
94 points, Susan Hulme, Wine Independent (Jul 2022)
The 2018 Barolo is a gorgeous entry-level wine. Actually, it is an entry-level wine just in name. Racy and pliant, with terrific purity and fine balance, the 2018 is positively stellar. Crushed red berry fruit, flowers, mint, licorice and rose petal flesh out in this gorgeous, captivating Barolo from the Altare family. Vineyard sites are Sarmassa, Badarina and Novello.
92 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2022)
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