Oddero Barolo Brunate 2017

In 1968, our family purchased this beautiful vineyard of just half a hectare, located in the high elevations of the area of Brunate. The view of the Barolo hills from its vantage point calms the spirit. Its excellent microclimate is the best in the Brunate area. It is a true paradise for growing vines, especially from the point of view of vine health.

A constant, light breeze in the morning naturally keeps fungal infections at bay, thus reducing insect pests, as well. The vineyard is already spontaneously organic. The soil comes from the Tortonian Miocene epoch. It is a blue-grey marl rich in calcium carbonates and manganese, with a mixture of fine sand and clay as well as limestone called Sant’Agata marl.

The 2017 Barolo Brunate shows an extra level of spice and dark fruit concentration in this vintage. The wine has a nicely developed savory side, yet its dark fruit aromas of cherry and cassis remain faithfully intact. There is ample structure and contouring, especially in the determined manner in which this wine wraps over the palate. Indeed, on final analysis, I believe this wine will be remembered for the firm and compact nature of its inner engineering. Drink 2024-2043 – 95+ Points. Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate.

I love Villero, Rocche, and the classico from this producer. Brunate seems to do well with overseas critics, though I feel it’s the most bulky and four-square of the offerings from Oddero. Importer: Mondo Imports

Roast nuts and coffee, cherry and exotic spice, chamomile perfume. Offers a bit of weight and depth, slightly meaty flavour, with cherry and blueberry, freshness to acidity, some grain and grip to tannin, and a strawberry/cranberry liveliness to close, and some coffee bean again. Needs a bit of time to settle, but good wine of vigour here. Drink 2024-2034 – 93 Points. Gary Walsh, The Wine Front.