Louis Oudart (1796-1860) is considered to be the father of the Italian DOCG red wines Barbaresco and Barolo. Jancis Robinson, Hugh Johnson and others mention this name. However, evidence suggests that Louis Oudart has been confused. Sources also mention other names such as Louise Oudart and Louis Odart. In French literature, however, there is no mention of Louis Oudart, who achieved remarkable things in viticulture in the 19th century. There is some evidence in favour of the famous French viticultural scientist Alexandre-Pierre Odart (1778-1866). This well-known oenologist had good contacts with the Italian royal family. His dates of birth, international experience and the name Comte Odart also fit, as Italian literature often refers to a Conte Odart when talking about Barolo. He is subsequently referred to as Oudart/Odart.
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Thorsten Rahn
Restaurantleiter, Sommelier, Weindozent und Autor; Dresden