Podere Cantina Oddero wine dinner at Undici

On the 24th of April, 2012, Undici restaurant hosted a wine dinner for Podere Cantina Oddero.

Oddero, located in La Morra in the Piemonte region of Italy, is run by two sisters, Mariacristina (Cristina) Oddero and Mariavittoria Oddero. The Oddero family has been producing wines at their estate since the 18th century. At the dinner, I had the good fortune to meet with Christina and her niece, Isabella, who is the winery’s spokesperson.

Over the course of the evening, we tasted seven wines expertly paired with four courses by Undici’s executive chef Giovanni (this man is one great chef!). There were actually five courses and eight wines, but I missed the dessert course. Great Italian wine plus great Italian food resulted in a great wine tasting experience.

2007 Martinetti Sul Bric

Sul Bric is a red blend produced by Franco M. Martinetti in the town of Monferrato in Piemonte, Italy.

The blend is 50% Barbera and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon. Despite the components, this wine does not have that modern SuperTuscan/new age feel to it. It is much more old world in style and flavor.

A very, interesting bottle of wine.

2009 Braida Montebruna Barbera d’ Asti

100% Barbera from Piemonte. Aged in oak for 1 year.

Barbera is such a great grape when handled properly, and they do it right at Braida with Montebruna. Floral notes on the nose. Bright fruit, blackberry on the palate. 15% ABV, but it blends nicely with the fruit, not overwhelming at all. Very little oak, Barbera is in the forefront. Surprisingly, long, pleasant finish.

It will pair with a host of foods – pasta, fish, pork, chicken. Maybe not bold enough for a steak (but give it a try and let me know!). This is a great Italian table wine.

This will likely improve over the next few years, but consistent sampling is required….

At $25 per bottle, this was a bargain.