My evening with Silvia Altare.

Terrific lady from the famous Elio Altare estate in Piedmont. She was in town last Saturday night for a 18 person sit-down tasting at DeVines downtown. 10 wines, $125 for a seat. Needles to say was sold out a long time ago and I was very fortunate to be able to help and generally assist wit the food, water service and clean up after .

Barolos tasted included the 2007-20010, the basic house Barolo. After a break, the 2000, `04 and `05. The reception wine was the 2011 Langhe Nebbiolo and we were lucky to sample the L`Insieme 2012 as the evening drew to a close..blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo, CS, Merlot. Proceeds from the worldwide sale go to various charitable organizations. The following 2 wines were exceptional I thought, the Dolcetto was a store afternoon pour.

2013 Dolcetto d`Alba.

Ruby red with slight tints of purple. Earthy nose, floral, reddish berrries. Bigish wine on the palate, pronounced acidity as I expected. Cranberry, herbal, still has tannins which do not overpower. Held up well for day 2..had 3 oz in the bottle! More complex than I expected, serious juice this.

2005 Barolo.

Just a quick splash decant. Cherries, cranberry on nose..tar.Still has noted tannins. Drinks now but Silvia thinks lots of progression ahead. Flavors reflect the aromas pretty well.


**** never before have I ever seen a winery owner help with any tasting cleanup including sweeping the floor. Amazing woman.

That must have been a real treat, Bob. I have enjoyed similar ranges at tastings three times, I think, and twice enlivened by the presence of Elio himself. It sounds as if Silvia takes after her father.