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Dolcetto d’Alba: an exceptional Italian DOC

14/10/2020 Winemaking

Because Italy has such diverse geography and climates, there is also huge variety in the styles of wine made here. This is a country with a long history of winemaking. One significant area of the country is Piedmont, in northwest Italy, home to one sixth of the total area of vineyards in the entire country. A winemaking paradise that includes 44 DOC (Controlled Denomination of Origin) and 12 DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin). Among these is Dolcetto d’Alba, a Controlled Denomination of Origin where the wines are made entirely with Dolcetto variety grapes.

dolcetto

Dolcetto, the third most common variety in Piedmont

After Nebbiolo and Barbera, Dolcetto is the third most common red grape in Piedmont and is mainly linked to the cities of Alba, Dogliani, Diano d’Alba and Ovada, in the province of Cuneo. The name Dolcetto, means “little sweet one” and is named because of this grape’s sweetness when ripe. However, some studies have found that its name actually comes from the hills where it was originally grown. It is an early ripening variety that grows mainly in the cooler and higher areas where other varieties might struggle. In fact, many local growers cultivate Dolcetto to start making a profit while they wait for the Nebbiolo and Barbera grapes to finish ripening at lower altitudes. 

Characterised by its low acidity and soft and not very aggressive tannins, its wines have very fruity aromas with apple blossom flowers and spicy touches of black pepper. On the palate they are full of fruitiness with an appetising sweet bitterness at the end. And although the name suggests sweetness, the wines are normally dry, light, easy to drink and for opening soon after purchase. They should generally be opened within 5 years.

DOC Dolcetto d’Alba: wines with a young expression

Today the Dolcetto variety enjoys a very good reputation and in recent decades it has become more and more popular. So much so that no one can now deny the excellence of the Dolcetto d’Alba, a Controlled Denomination of Origin that covers the highest area of the province of Cuneo and wines made there must meet the following conditions:

  • The maximum yield of grapes in a wine must not exceed 70%.
  • Wines must be produced entirely with the Dolcetto variety.
  • The total natural alcohol content must be at least 11%.

This results in ruby red wines that are very pleasant, balanced and easy to drink, perfect for pairing with pasta and pizza dishes.

5 of the most accessible DOC Dolcetto d’Alba red wines

Sandrone Dolcetto d’Alba 2018

sandrone

Starting from a great respect for the terroir, Luciano Sandrone is world renowned for his elegant and modern wines. With 90 Parker points, this is an eclectic wine with a young personality for all occasions.

Ceretto Dolcetto d’Alba Rossana 2018

ceretto

One of the best known wineries in Piedmont, a wine with a Ceretto label will always be excellent. A red that showcases all the intrinsic characteristics of the DOC Dolcetto d’Alba, made with grapes that have been cultivated according to ecological principles.

G.D. Vajra Dolcetto d’Alba 2019

vajra

Located in the highest part of Piedmont, G.D. Vajra’s wines are characterised by their freshness and liveliness. A perfect location for the Dolcetto variety to reach its best, which is exactly what the winegrower was trying to show in this wine. 

Elio Altare Dolcetto d’Alba 2018

Elio

Thought to be one of Langhe’s most innovative winemakers, Elio Altare uses all the knowledge he acquired in Burgundy to revolutionise the traditional Barolo region. This young red wine is perfect for refreshing the atmosphere and a great example of Elio’s work. 

Cascina Fontana Dolcetto d’Alba 2017

cascina fontana

This is the first wine produced each year by Mario Fontana, an expert winegrower who, with six generations of experience behind him, has an exceptional understanding of the Dolcetto variety. This is clear to see in this wine, which although is relatively young, can hold onto its vitality and freshness for up to five years.

Bearing in mind that the best Dolcetto comes from Alba, these five wines are the perfect way to enjoy an authentic Dolcetto d’Alba at a very affordable price. What are you waiting for?

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