Barolo, Arborina, 2005
Elio’s flagship wine. This seems, momentarily, reserved and brooding on the first approach but rather like a tightly-coiled spring, it soon bounces into action, bursting with gripping, powerful blueberry, bramble, currant skin and cherry fruit, while flavoursome and refreshing rock salt notes complement the exquisite fruit flavours. This shows ample richness and complexity for a top Barolo but the overriding sensation is of clarity and freshness.
critic reviews
A classic Elio Altare wine, the 2005 Barolo Arborina is big, rich and voluptuous, with gorgeous depth and overall resonance. The flavors are dark, bold and incisive, with striking richness and overall intensity. Here, too, the 2005 could still use time in bottle, although it is delicious today. The succulent, juicy finish is inviting, but the 2005 will be even better with more time in bottle. Rose petal, mint and a host of high-toned aromatics add the final shades of nuance.