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SKU 969029
$29.94/bottle
Out of stock
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These are not happy times for Dolcetto, with many vintners today ripping out their vines to replace this grape with Nebbiolo. The Roagna family is determined to keep its two parcels of Dolcetto in Barbaresco. Luca’s grandfather drank Dolcetto every day, and just as he loved it, this wine is made in an old-school style. Fruit comes from 70- and 80-year-old vines. The 2023 Dolcetto d’Alba sees an incredible 100 days of maceration, and the idea is to get as much tannin as possible from the skins and seeds because Dolcetto is not naturally tannic. Winemaking is an infusion with submerged cap. Pump-overs and punch-downs are largely avoided. This gives the wine just enough structure for a modest aging window. Otherwise, you get very pleasurable, crunchy fruit over a mid-weight delivery with delicate tones of rose, violet and cherry cola.
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.
WA92pts
Wine Advocate
These are not happy times for Dolcetto, with many vintners today ripping out their vines to replace this grape with Nebbiolo. The Roagna family is determined to keep its two parcels of Dolcetto in Barbaresco. Luca's grandfather drank Dolcetto every day, and just as he loved it, this wine is made in an old-school style. Fruit comes from 70- and 80-year-old vines. The 2023 Dolcetto d'Alba sees an incredible 100 days of maceration, and the idea is to get as much tannin as possible from the skins and seeds because Dolcetto is not naturally tannic. Winemaking is an infusion with submerged cap. Pump-overs and punch-downs are largely avoided. This gives the wine just enough structure for a modest aging window. Otherwise, you get very pleasurable, crunchy fruit over a mid-weight delivery with delicate tones of rose, violet and cherry cola.
VM90pts
Vinous Media
Just bottled, the 2023 Dolcetto d'Alba is aromatic, gracious and light on its feet. Crushed flowers, spice, licorice, leather and blue-toned fruit all grace this understated Dolcetto. The 2023 spent nearly 90 days on the skins, followed by aging in cask and cement. Like so many wines in this vintage, the Dolcetto is on the lighter side.
Winery Notes
A traditional indigenous variety found in our estate-owned vineyards, near the winery's historical headquarters.
This wine is made from vines that are over fifty years old, according to a very traditional vinification process that can include up to 100 days of submerged cap maceration. The wine then ages for a year in wood and concrete vats.
Very pleasant when young, it also has excellent ageing potential, thanks to its origins in very calcareous historical vineyards.
