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SKU 896465
$23.94/bottle
Out of stock
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The 2021 Dolcetto d’Alba is bright and punchy. Blue/purplish fruit, violets, spice, licorice and rose petal all meld together in this bracing, taut Dolcetto. This is an especially understated, super-classic style for Sandrone, and it works so well.
In Italian, Dolcetto means 'little sweet one' – a slightly misleading name, as the black grapes of this varietal have relatively little natural sugar and almost almost produce dry wines. However, the Dolcetto grapes are remarkably popular with those looking for a full, rounded and highly flavorful wine, and are grown extensively in their native Italy, and in many other countries around the world. Dolcetto varietal grapes tend to have quite a high level of tannin, due to their thick, black skins, and low acidity, resulting in interesting wines with a large feel in the mouth, despite being relatively light in body. They are most commonly associated with big, complex flavors such as liquorice and prunes, and are regularly described as having a finish similar to the flavor of bitter almonds.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Piedmont
Situated in the north-western part of Italy, the region of Piedmont is known worldwide and is highly respected for the quality of the wines produced there. Many of the most successful sub-regions in Piedmont produce many of the world's finest red wines, such as those made from the excellent Nebbiolo grape varietal in areas such as Barolo and Barbaresco. However, the historic wineries which typify this region use a relatively wide variety of grapes, including Dolcetto and Barbera for their red wines, which are typically aged and have a delightful velvety character. Piedmont isn't all about beautifully complex red wines, though, as it is also famed for high quality, elegant sparkling wines, notably the Asti wines made with the white Moscato grape. The region benefits from a range of terroirs which are often well expressed in the sparkling wines, and a wonderfully consistent climate ideal for vineyard cultivation.
Appellation
Alba
Alba, situated in the heart of the Piedmont region in Italy, is a charming wine appellation celebrated for its exceptional red wines, notably Barolo and Barbaresco. Home to the Nebbiolo grape, Alba’s unique terroir, marked by chalky soils and a favorable microclimate, imparts distinctive characteristics to these wines. Barolo, known as the “King of Wines,” exhibits bold tannins and complex flavors of red fruit, roses, and tar, while Barbaresco offers a more approachable elegance. Alba’s winemaking tradition, deeply rooted in centuries-old practices, coexists with a commitment to innovation. The annual International Truffle Fair in Alba adds to its allure, showcasing the seamless harmony between wine and local culinary treasures. Alba stands as a beacon of Piedmontese winemaking, inviting enthusiasts to savor the nuanced expressions of Nebbiolo in this captivating Italian appellation.
VM91pts
Vinous Media
The 2021 Dolcetto d'Alba is bright and punchy. Blue/purplish fruit, violets, spice, licorice and rose petal all meld together in this bracing, taut Dolcetto. This is an especially understated, super-classic style for Sandrone, and it works so well.
WE90pts
Wine Enthusiast
The Dolcetto is as dark as night and stains the glass with its intense extraction of color. This richness in color is just the prelude to the ripe and luscious plum aromas that mingle with notes of violets and dried herbs. The palate is plush and full in body with the core of fruit being dominated by black plum and black cherry with a subtle leather note peeking through on the finish.
WS89pts
Wine Spectator
This red is appealing in its softness, despite a base of light tannins and bright acidity. Allows the cherry and berry fruit to shine. Moderate length. Drink now through 2026. 2,500 cases made, 420 cases imported.
Winery Notes
The nose offers attractive aromas of juicy black fruits, spices and underbrush. The palate is refreshing and mouth-filling with good black plum fruit, raspberry and herbal notes. The finish is fresh and lively with nice, soft tannins giving some structure.
