Elio Altare Cerretta Vigna Bricco Riserva Barolo 2019

Elio Altare Cerretta Vigna Bricco Riserva Barolo is a Nebbiolo from the DOCG Barolo Riserva in Piedmont. Altare returned from Burgundy set on applying what he had learned, combining minimal cellar intervention with careful, modern winemaking, and he became an influential figure in the Langhe. The Cerretta vineyard lies in Serralunga d'Alba, an area known for calcareous marl soils that give Barolo firm structure, power and the potential for long ageing. Nebbiolo ripens late and carries high acidity and abundant tannin, while the cool climate and wide day to night temperature range preserve its perfume. As a Riserva the wine sees extended ageing, which through slow oxygen exchange resolves the tannin and builds savoury complexity. Colour is garnet. The nose shows dark cherry and red berries with rose, tobacco and a leathery note, and the palate is full bodied and firm, with grippy tannin, bright acidity and a long finish marked by liquorice and dried herbs. It rewards further cellaring. Serve at 18 degrees, decanted for at least an hour. It suits braised beef and game.