2008 Luigi Oddero Barolo Vignarionda, Piedmont

A hallmark bottling from one of Serralunga's prime vineyard sites, this gorgeous Barolo has structure, breeding and class. It opens with classic aromas of perfumed berry, leather, forest floor, tobacco and a balsamic note while the impeccable palate delivers wild cherry, crushed raspberry, strawberry, chopped herb, white pepper and licorice. It's still tight and tannic so give it time to fully develop to is full, amazing potential. Drink 2023–2033.

96 points wineenthusiast.com

Luigi Oddero Barolo Vignarionda is a monumental expression of Nebbiolo from one of Barolo’s most revered and historically significant vineyards. Vignarionda sits in Serralunga d’Alba, a naturally powerful commune, and is widely regarded as the pinnacle site of the area. The vineyard forms a natural amphitheatre with excellent southern exposure, and its limestone rich marl soils give wines of extraordinary structure, mineral depth and longevity. This is Barolo at its most uncompromising and age worthy.

The Oddero family has been part of the Langhe’s viticultural history since the late eighteenth century, and Luigi Oddero was a passionate defender of traditional Barolo values. That philosophy continues here. The approach in the vineyard and cellar is patient and classical, designed to let the vineyard speak without interference. Long macerations, gentle extraction and extended ageing in large oak casks allow Vignarionda’s natural power and complexity to emerge slowly and authentically, without cosmetic oak or modern gloss.

Aromatically, the wine is deep, layered and commanding. Rose petal and dried violet sit alongside sour cherry, red plum and blood orange peel. With time in the glass, more serious elements unfold. Tar, liquorice, crushed stone, iron and dried herbs build complexity and gravitas. There is an unmistakable sense of density and depth, but everything remains controlled and poised.

On the palate, Luigi Oddero Barolo Vignarionda is firm, structured and intensely detailed. Red fruit and dried cherry flavours lead into savoury notes of tea leaf, spice, earth and mineral. The tannins are the defining feature. Fine grained, persistent and powerful, they provide the architectural backbone that makes this wine legendary. Acidity is vibrant and integrated, lifting the wine and carrying it through a long, dry and resonant finish that echoes florals, tar and stone.

This is a wine that demands patience. While it can be approached young with extended decanting, it is clearly built for the long term. Over twenty to thirty years, it will evolve into something profoundly complex, developing layers of truffle, leather, dried flowers and savoury depth while retaining its formidable structure. At the table, it calls for equally serious food. Braised meats, game, truffle dishes and classic Piedmontese cuisine are ideal companions.

Luigi Oddero Barolo Vignarionda is not simply a great Barolo, it is a reference point for the entire appellation. Traditional, powerful and deeply expressive of Serralunga d’Alba, it is a true collector’s wine and one that rewards time, patience and reverence.