2021 Oddero Barolo Brunate

The Oddero 2021 Barolo Brunate comes from half a hectare of vines, and only 2,400 bottles were created. It is recognized by a dusty mineral note of crushed limestone or aspirin that appears quite prominent in this balanced vintage. It adds a dusty sensation to the bouquet that then transfers to the elegantly powdery tannins. I love the Brunate in this vintage, with its lasting sensations of dried mint and violet. I love its vertical force and that etched mineral quality that adds contouring and dimension. The Brunate ages in botte grande for 24 months.

Pouring a deeper, saturated ruby red color, the 2021 Barolo Brunate is a bit more reserved but seductive on the nose with aromas of fresh leather, black raspberries, balsamic herbs, and mossy earth. The palate also takes on more sapidity, with a more balanced, rounded feel, plush, ripe tannins, even acidity, and a long finish closing with hints of black truffle. It’s a more brooding wine that’s going to improve over the coming 15-20 years.

The 2021 Barolo Brunate is another stellar wine in this range of magnificent 2021s from Oddero. Dark and intensely balsamic, this is an archetype of Brunate. Black cherry, blood orange, spice, menthol, spice and new leather open with reticence. Today, I find the 2021 rather compact. Then again, this is Brunate. Readers will want to give this a few years in the cellar at a minimum.