Altare's stunning 1988 Barolo-Arborina is a brilliant example of Nebbiolo. The deep black/ruby color and huge nose of black fruits, tar, and spices are followed by a wine with explosive richness, layer upon layer of dense, chewy Nebbiolo fruit, and a blockbuster, moderately tannic, phenomenally long finish. If you are able, defer your gratification until the mid-nineties, then be prepared to experience the magic over the following 12-15 years.
Altare is making some of the most magnificent wines in Italy. His Barberas represent my favorite expression of this grape.
Importer: A Marc de Grazia Selection, Consensus Selections, Philadelphia, PA.