98pts Vinous
Drinking Window: 2028 - 2046
The 2021 Barolo Villero soars from the glass with intensely spiced, balsamic-tinged aromatics. Deceptively medium in body, with superb persistence and class, the 2021 is simply magnificent. Beams of tannin shape the unforgettable, persistent finish. This is another wine that demands patience. The Villero is not an easy wine, rather it is a Barolo that offers a more inward, at times intellectual, expression of Nebbiolo.
- By Antonio Galloni, January 2025
I was so impressed with these 2021s from Poderi e Cantine Oddero. I suppose I should not be surprised, given where the wines have been over the last handful of years, but at the same time, I can't forget the enormous strides the Oddero family has made over that period. Readers will find wines that express all the best the vintage had to offer. The straight Barolo is a fabulous introduction to the range. From there, the wines just get better and better. The highlights are many. This year, I was especially struck by the Villero, a truly magnificent Barolo. It is a blend of two tanks, one of which was done with submerged cap maceration that lasted 70 days. The wines are aged in cask for around 20-23 months. Brunate, Oddero's smallest holding, is naturally aged in a smaller cask, and sees a bit less time in oak in order to soften any overt wood character. It is another exceptional wine in this lineup. As is the Barolo Rocche di Castiglione. I would be thrilled to own these wines.

96 pts Wine Spectator
Though lush and smooth, this red is backed by dense, serious tannins. Macerated cherry, strawberry, plum, iron, eucalyptus and tobacco flavors are intertwined with the refined tannins. Shows fine balance and length, with a savory aftertaste. Best from 2029 through 2048.

95+ pts Jeb Dunnuck
Displaying a bright red hue, the 2021 Barolo Villero opens with slightly restrained aromatics of orange zest, cranberries, dark stones, and savory earthy tones that hint at truffle. Medium-bodied, it shows nervous tension, with angular tannins and a bright spine of acidity. The structure suggests it will benefit from additional time in bottle. With air, notes of mint and fresh earth begin to emerge. Drink 2027-2047.

95 pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Compared to the others, the Oddero 2021 Barolo Villero embraces a wider span of aromas that are more horizontal in approach, with dark fruit, licorice and spice. This wine expresses itself beautifully, especially as you give it more time in the glass. I am especially impressed by the quality of the tannins, which are firm, nervous and elegant. This release of 6,500 bottles sees a spontaneous fermentation with submerged cap and 60 days of slow maceration in oak casks. It matures in botte grande for 24 months.