1999 Elio Altare - Langhe Vigna Larigi
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
I have long believed the level of a producer can only be truly understood by looking at the small vintages, and this next set of wines is truly surprising. To be sure, none of the wines of the early 1990s is extraordinary, but they reveal so much about what it means to be a top-level grower. The 1999 Larigi is a firm, intense Larigi very much in the style of the great 1989. Vibrant fruit and expressive, perfumed aromatics are framed by firm, yet harmonious tannins. Lingering notes of sweetness come through on the intense finish.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Bright medium ruby. Vibrant, complex aromas of cassis, violet, bitter chocolate and spices. Dense but juicy and bright, with tangy black fruit and bitter chocolate flavors framed and drawn out by lively ripe acids. Finishes very spicy, lively and long, with uncommonly sweet, fine tannins. A great expression of barbera.