Dolcetto | Grape variety

Dolcetto is a dark-skinned grape from the hills of Monferrato in north-western Italy that is prized for its soft, fruity red wines. Dolcetto wines typically have an intense, bright color ranging from ruby red to purple and a spectrum of aromas that includes dark fruits, a fine spiciness and earthy undertones - often with a hint of almonds or even walnuts in more tannic varieties. Despite the name, which means “little sweet one” in Italian, Dolcetto wines are generally dry. The term refers to the low acidity, which gives the wines their accessible, velvety structure. As they are not usually designed for long maturation periods, Dolcetto wines should be enjoyed within three to four years of the harvest. Historically, Dolcetto was long considered the third red wine grape of Piedmont - after the more prestigious Nebbiolo and Barbera varieties. In practice, however, the adaptable and early-ripening Dolcetto grape plays an important role in Piedmontese viticulture. It is often grown in cooler, higher-lying plots where Nebbiolo would have difficulty ripening. It is precisely these sites that allow Dolcetto to retain a balanced degree of freshness and structure despite its early ripeness. This results in modern Dolcetto wines that are not only easily accessible, but also reflect the diversity of Piedmont with character and authenticity. - Gerardo [TS05/25]

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