Elio Altare was one of the famed "Barolo Boys" - a legion of Barolo producers who eschewed tradition back in the 70s and produced wines that were softer on the tannin and more approachable in their youth.

The change was influenced by a trip to Burgundy in 1976, after which Altare came back and according to legend chopped up the enormous traditional barrels of the region with a chainsaw - a move that disgusted his traditionalist father Giuseppe - and made smaller barriques (a style of barrel common in Burgundy) which produce wines more approachable in their youth.

The term "Barolo Boys" has stuck, despite Altare's daughter - Silvia Altare - taking over as the estate's custodian, but Elio's methodology has not only stuck, but permeated the whole appellation-wide production of Barolo.

Fast-forward to 2021 and you've got an incredible vintage giving fine tannin, intense aromatics, pronounced acid and while very drinkable right now, has many years ahead of it in a cellar.

Snatch up any 2021 Barolo while you can.