I am really pleased to have accessed an allocation from a new Barolo estate, and even more so to have won that allocation in the highly impressive 2016 vintage, which is shaping up to be one of the all-time greats for the region.
Poderi Oddero is an historic Barolo property, with roots going back to the end of the 18th century. However, it is only in more recent years that this La Morra estate’s wines have risen to real prominence under the stewardship of Mariacristina Oddero. One of the keys to Oddero’s success is its enviable holdings in some of the most heralded Barolo vineyards such as Vigna Rionda, Rocche di Castiglione, Brunate, Villero, and, most recently, the acquisition of a small parcel of Monvigliero. The initial harvests of Monvigliero will be blended into the straight Barolo until Mariacristina feels the fruit from this parcel is of a quality that warrants bottling as a single cru.
Oddero has been a fascinating property to track; quality has not always been as high as it is today. However, we are now witnessing far greater consistency than ever before, culminating in a stunning range of 2016s. The wines are made in a classic style, highlighting vineyard typicity and recent vintages have shown terrific purity and expression. Unsurprisingly there is a rapidly growing following for this estate.
Antonio Galloni recently introduced his review of Poderi Oddero by commenting that this is ‘another stellar set of wines from the Oddero family’. He went on to say that ‘Mariacristina Oddero, along with her son, Pietro, and niece, Isabella, has really taken these wines to another level in recent years. The 2016s and 2015s I tasted are all translucent, classic wines that capture the essence of place with stylishness and class’. I couldn’t agree more – I had a brilliant tasting at Oddero in December. The 2016s showed so well that it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Volumes of the crus from Oddero are not vast, so I jumped at the chance to offer a Collector’s Case, comprising each of the cru Barolo as well as 2 bottles of the straight Barolo, offered at £300 per 6 bottle case in bond. This is the first time the estate has produced these mixed cases and I am pleased we have managed to secure a good allocation.
2016 Barolo Collector’s Case, Poderi Oddero
1 x Brunate, 1 x Rocche di Castiglione, 2 x Villero and 2 x Barolo Normale
£300 per 6 bottle case in bond
Please see below for Antonio Galloni's scores and notes on the wines included in the case:
2016 Barolo, Brunate, Poderi Oddero
97 points, Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
The 2016 Barolo Brunate is a stunning wine that shows Oddero at their very best. Powerful and yet also magically transparent, as only Nebbiolo can be, the Brunate captivates all the senses with a stunning mélange of aromatic depth, richness and pure power. Hints of orange peel, mint and dried flowers develop with time, but more than anything else, the Brunate is a Barolo that is all about nuance. Today, it is positively dazzling. Wow! Drink : 2026-2041.
2016 Barolo, Rocche di Castiglione, Poderi Oddero
95 points, Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
The 2016 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a powerful, brooding wine that marries the aromatic top notes of Rocche with the structural underpinnings of Monforte, where Oddero's small strip of vineyards lie. Iron, smoke, incense, dried herbs and flowers give the Rocche stunning aromatic intensity. Deep and structured in feel, the Rocche is another wine in this range that is going to need time to be at its best. Even today, though, it is impressive. Drink : 2026-2041.
2016 Barolo, Villero, Poderi Oddero
94 points, Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
Black cherry, cloves, melted road tar, licorice and leather all run through Oddero's 2016 Barolo Villero. Deep on the palate with huge swaths of tannin, the Villero is a decidedly big, virile wine that is going to need time to fully come together. I imagine it will always be a powerhouse, however. The Villero is not especially elegant; the bombastic style clearly favors power over finesse - at least, it does today. Even so, there is plenty of Nebbiolo character and classic, old-school austerity. Drink : 2026-2041.
2016 Barolo, Poderi Oddero
92 points, Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
The 2016 Barolo is a gorgeous entry-level offering in this range that also shows just how compelling the vintage is. Deep, plush and exquisitely layered, the 2016 has so much to offer. Hints of spice, orange peel, rose petal and tar add pretty aromatic top notes throughout. This is such an alluring and irresistible wine. Drink : 2022-2036.
Please let us know if you are interested in adding a case to your reserve. A swift response is advised!
All the best,
Simon