Dolcetto, meaning "little sweet one" in Italian, might suggest a sugary wine, but this title is rather a term of endearment for the grape and its origins. Hailing primarily from the Piedmont region, especially in areas like Dogliani and Alba, this grape varietal is known for producing wines with an inviting deep ruby hue. On the palate, Dolcetto often reveals flavors of black cherry, licorice, and prune, complemented by a pleasant almond bitterness in the finish. Its naturally low acidity and soft tannins make it highly approachable, best enjoyed in its youth. Historically enjoyed by local vineyard workers as a refreshing drink after a long day, this wine captures the very essence of the Italian countryside and the laid-back lifestyle it epitomizes.
Dolcetto, directly translated as "little sweet one" from Italian, is a captivating red wine grape variety. While the name might suggest a dessert-like sweetness, it is more of a term of endearment; Dolcetto wines are typically dry. Characterized by its deep ruby hue, Dolcetto wines are brimming with flavors of black cherry, licorice, and blackberry, often accompanied by subtle undertones of bitter almond and herbs. The wine is known for its soft tannins and low acidity, making it particularly smooth and easily approachable for many palates. It's a wine that captures the heart of the Piedmont region, mirroring the area's vibrant culture and winemaking traditions in each sip.
Dolcetto thrives predominantly in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. Towns like Dogliani, Alba, and Asti, among others, are acclaimed epicenters of Dolcetto cultivation. Dogliani, in particular, is so intertwined with the grape that its top-tier wines are exclusively made from Dolcetto. The region's combination of clayey and sandy soils, along with its favorable climate, provides the perfect terroir for Dolcetto vines, imbuing the grapes with their characteristic depth and flavor profile.
Several Dolcetto wines have garnered attention for their exceptional quality. Notably, "Dolcetto di Dogliani Superiore" is esteemed for its robust character and aging potential, a step up from the traditional Dolcetto di Dogliani. "Dolcetto d'Alba" is another popular appellation, known for producing wines that perfectly balance fruitiness with structure. Other notable mentions include "Dolcetto d'Asti" and "Dolcetto delle Langhe Monregalesi," each with its unique expression of the varietal, reflecting the nuances of their respective terroirs.
While Dolcetto wines are generally quite affordable, certain bottles provide exceptional value for their price point. Many Dolcetto d'Alba wines, for instance, deliver the varietal's signature flavor profile without commanding high-end prices. "Dolcetto d'Asti" wines, while sometimes overlooked in favor of the region's more famous Nebbiolo and Barbera wines, can offer delightful surprises for those seeking quality on a budget. These wines capture the heart of Piedmont's terroir without breaking the bank, making them an ideal choice for everyday enjoyment.
Dolcetto's soft tannins and vibrant fruit flavors make it an adaptable companion for various dishes. Traditional Piedmontese cuisine, like "agnolotti" (meat-filled pasta) or "tajarin" (thin noodles with rich sauces), pairs wonderfully with Dolcetto's profile. The wine's mild nature also complements dishes like grilled vegetables, mushroom risottos, and charcuterie boards. Its low acidity ensures that it doesn't overpower lighter dishes, yet it has enough body to stand up to heartier fares like stews or roasted meats. Whether you're indulging in Italian classics or exploring other cuisines, Dolcetto is a versatile choice for enhancing the culinary experience.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Delivery Times
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Quality Guarantee
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
Sending a Gift
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.