Elio Altare 2021 Barolo

Critical Acclaim

97pts Jeb Dunnuck

Elio Altare Barolo 2021 Elio Altare is a living legend and a pivotal figure in the history of Piedmont, famously known as a leader of the "Barolo Boys" who revolutionized the region’s winemaking in the 1980s. While Elio’s radical vision—prioritizing elegance, purity of fruit, and approachability—built the estate’s iconic status, the winery is now led by his daughter, Silvia Altare. Silvia has been a cornerstone of the estate since 2003 and officially took the reins in 2016, ensuring that the family’s "traditionally modern" style continues to evolve with precision and energy. The 2021 Barolo is a masterclass in this signature style, earning a spectacular 97-point rating from Jeb Dunnuck, who lauds its youthful deep red color and expressive nose of candied cherries, cranberries, and pressed roses.

Unlike the estate’s single-vineyard bottlings, this cuvée was raised entirely in used French barriques to highlight the exceptional transparency and salty mineral accents of the 2021 vintage. It is a harmonious blend from prime sites across Castiglione Falletto, Barolo, Roddi, and Serralunga d'Alba, delivering a palate that is both warm and persistent with incredibly refined tannins. Silvia’s influence is evident in the wine's flawless balance and vibrant fruit purity, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the estate’s legacy while embracing the nuances of each new season. This bottle represents a rare opportunity to taste the work of one of Barolo’s most dynamic winemakers at the peak of an epic vintage, offering a wine that is as intellectually stimulating as it is delicious.

93 Points from Wine Advocate

92 Points from Vinous

92 Points from Decanter

The 2021 vintage has already earned strong critical recognition, with scores including 93 points from Wine Advocate, 92 points from Vinous, and 92 points from Decanter, reflecting its balance, purity, and expressive character. Additional critical praise for the 2021 Arborina bottling—such as 97 points from Jeb Dunnuck, highlighting its floral precision and refined texture—further underscores the strength of the vintage and the continued excellence of the Altare estate.

Tasting Notes

The Elio Altare 2021 Barolo shows the estate’s signature modern elegance, offering an intense ruby color with garnet reflections and a lifted, expressive aromatic profile. Notes of fresh red fruits—raspberry, redcurrant, and small wild berries—interlace with wild rose, licorice, and subtle spice, reflecting the producer’s own description of its characteristic perfume. The palate is warm, refined, and persistent, with silky tannins shaped by a short maceration and 24 months of aging in French barrique. The wine’s structure is both rich and harmonious, balancing Nebbiolo’s natural tension with Altare’s hallmark finesse. Its combination of purity, energy, and polished texture makes it approachable in youth while promising graceful evolution.
This Barolo pairs beautifully with dishes that complement its tannic structure and aromatic lift. Traditional Piedmontese fare such as braised meats, game, and truffle‑infused dishes are natural matches, while grilled dark meats, mature cheeses, and hearty pasta or casserole preparations also align well with the wine’s depth and acidity, as suggested by pairing guidance for the 2021 vintage. Its floral brightness and fine tannins also make it a compelling partner for dishes featuring mushrooms, herbs, or slow‑cooked sauces.

750ml