We've received a small allotment of one of Barolo's most esteemed wine dynasties, Oddero, with a rich history spanning over 200 years. Established in the 1700s and among the first to estate bottle Barolo in the late 1800s, Oddero's extensive legacy is a testament to their enduring commitment to tradition and innovation. Managed by the seventh generation with matriarch Mariacristina Oddero at the head, this family-run winery continues to uphold its esteemed reputation as one of the region's great traditionalists, delivering wines that resonate with history and craftsmanship.
If you remember the 2019 releases last year, it was clear that Oddero has staged their return to the top of the pack. The 2020 releases are a striking continuation of the estate's high form. Although you'll note that this vintage is less powerful than the 2019s, it remains classical and will deliver a more mid-weight and graceful experience with classical tannic structure. Oddero's wines have always been standard bearers for traditional, tannin-packed and umami bomb Barolo, but they've remained under the radar in comparison to the Mascarello's and Conterno's of the world. They hold world class parcels of the best vineyards in Barolo: Villero, Bussia, Rocche di Castiglione, and as of this year, Monvigliero. They are also not afraid to hold the wines back until they are ready. It's also a true pleasure to offer you aged releases direct from the estate, including some of their 100 Point 2016 Vigna Rionda release! Oddero's dedication to innovation is evident in their early adoption of Austrian oak (Stockinger) for aging, now a hallmark in top Piedmontese cellars. Their eco-friendly cellar design, with a grass-covered roof for natural insulation and solar panels for energy needs, underscores their commitment to sustainability.
Our team had the chance to try the 2020 Barolo "normale" and its cru cousins and they did not disappoint. You will not feel like you were "robbing the cradle” on drinking this Barolo "normale" now, but it will grow into a complex beauty with a few more years in the bottle. It is one of the most easy-drinking early Barolo I can remember. This is a great way to grab an epic classic producer of amazing pedigree without breaking the bank. Drink now with some meat on the table on a special evening or be rewarded by holding on to a couple for a few years. - BRANDON KERNE, MASTER SOMMELIER
The fruit represents a blend of four MGS sites: Bricco Chiesa and Capalot in La Morra, Fiasco in Castiglione Falletto and Monvigliero in Verduno.
91 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous
“The 2020 Barolo is a pretty powerful wine in this peer group. Accordingly, it is going to need a few years to come into its own. Macerated cherry, licorice, lavender, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco emerge gradually, but only with great reluctance. Hints of rose petal, mint and cinnamon linger.”
