Wines Langhe Elio Altare - Larigi Langhe Rosso - 2019

Elio Altare’s Cuvée Larigi Langhe Rosso 2019 is an intriguing red from the heart of Piedmont’s prestigious Langhe region. While not officially confirmed, the Larigi cuvée is most often associated with Barbera, though small amounts of other grape varieties may sometimes be included, offering a uniquely supple and expressive profile. The 2019 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, bestowing ripeness and intensity to the fruit. Vinification at Elio Altare’s cellar tends to emphasise purity and finesse, favouring relatively short macerations and the use of mainly French oak, striking a harmonious balance between fruit vibrancy and refined structure.

The Langhe region is one of Italy’s most revered viticultural landscapes, nestled among rolling hills at the foot of the Alps in Piedmont. The soils here are a fascinating mix of clay, limestone, and sand, contributing both freshness and complexity to the wines. The climate is continental, with considerable diurnal temperature swings, which helps preserve the bright acidity and aromatic precision characteristic of Langhe reds. Steeped in centuries of winemaking tradition, Langhe wines are renowned for their approachability in youth and capacity for ageing when crafted by top growers.

Pairing this wine with food offers plenty of possibilities. The vivid fruit and underlying freshness make it particularly suited to tomato-based dishes, such as tajarin al ragù, or other local specialities like vitello tonnato or bagna cauda. Its supple structure also pairs beautifully with grilled pork, roasted game birds, or mature cheeses from the region, such as Castelmagno or Toma Piemontese. Mushroom risotto or aubergine parmigiana would also be excellent vegetarian choices.

For an optimal tasting experience, serve the Elio Altare Larigi Langhe Rosso 2019 slightly cool—ideally at around 16-18°C. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before service can help the aromas unfurl, revealing both the wine’s exuberant fruit and its elegant, savoury dimensions. Enjoy it now for its charm and brightness, or cellar for a few years to appreciate greater complexity.