Oddero Barolo 2021

Barolo Oddero is a single-variety Nebbiolo from Poderi e Cantine Oddero, a family estate in La Morra founded in 1878 and one of the classic names of the appellation. The fruit comes from vineyards in the Langhe hills of Piedmont, where calcareous marl soils and a continental climate with wide day-to-night temperature swings let Nebbiolo ripen slowly while holding its acidity and perfume. Nebbiolo is a late-ripening variety high in both tannin and acid, and the extended ageing in wood softens its grip while allowing the fruit to turn savoury and complex. The result is a wine built for the table and the cellar. Expect a pale garnet colour, a nose of red cherry, dried rose, tobacco and leather, and a palate that is structured and firm, with fine drying tannins, bright acidity and a long finish of liquorice and dried herbs. Serve at 17 degrees and decant an hour ahead, in a large glass. It is a natural match for braised beef, game and mushroom dishes.