Everything About Dolcetto Grape
"dol-CHET-toh" 
Dolcetto Description
Origin: Piedmont, Italy
History: Dolcetto is a black Italian wine grape variety widely grown in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. The Italian word dolcetto means 'little sweet one', but it is not certain that the name originally carried any reference to the grape’s sugar levels; it is possible that it derives from the name of the hills where the vine is cultivated. In any case, the wines produced are nearly always dry. They can be tannic and fruity with moderate, or decidedly low, levels of acidity and are typically meant to be consumed within a few years after release.
Appearance: Medium-sized, dark-skinned berries growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Dolcetto is an early-maturing red grape grown widely in the Monferrato hills of the Piedmont region, northwestern Italy. Its name means 'little sweet one' in Italian, but, ironically, it produces dry and moderately tannic wines. Dolcetto wines offer light acidity, black fruit flavors, dark spice aromas, and earthy undertones of walnuts.
Food Pairing Dolcetto's low acidity and black fruit flavors make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with classic Italian cuisine, such as pasta with tomato-based sauces, pizza, and antipasti. The wine's moderate tannins complement grilled meats and roasted vegetables, while its subtle spice notes enhance dishes featuring herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Medium-bodied with a soft and fruity profile, offering black fruit flavors and moderate structure. Typically dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on fruit and subtle spice characteristics. Low to moderate tannin levels, providing gentle structure without being overly astringent. Low to medium acidity, contributing to a smooth and approachable profile. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Blackberry 
Plum 
Licorice 
Almond 
Violet Dolcetto wines are characterized by black fruit flavors such as blackberry and plum, complemented by notes of licorice and almond. Floral hints of violet add complexity, all balanced by low to medium acidity and moderate tannins, leading to a smooth and approachable finish.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Piedmont
•Liguria
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
•Oregon
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•Victoria
•South Australia
Notable Wines and Producers
Dolcetto di Dogliani
•Pecchenino
•Luigi Einaudi
Dolcetto d'Alba
•G.D. Vajra
•Bruno Giacosa
Dolcetto d'Ovada
•Poderi Rosso Giovanni
•Rocco di Carpeneto
Dolcetto FAQ
Piedmont, Italy
Dolcetto has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Dolcetto is Moderate bodied.
Dolcetto has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Dolcetto is Dry.
Piedmont, Italy
Dolcetto is grown in Italy (Piedmont, Liguria)United States (California, Oregon)Australia (Victoria, South Australia).
Dolcetto wines are characterized by black fruit flavors such as blackberry and plum, complemented by notes of licorice and almond. Floral hints of violet add complexity, all balanced by low to medium acidity and moderate tannins, leading to a smooth and approachable finish.
Dolcetto's low acidity and black fruit flavors make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with classic Italian cuisine, such as pasta with tomato-based sauces, pizza, and antipasti. The wine's moderate tannins complement grilled meats and roasted vegetables, while its subtle spice notes enhance dishes featuring herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Dolcetto wines are characterized by black fruit flavors such as blackberry and plum, complemented by notes of licorice and almond. Floral hints of violet add complexity, all balanced by low to medium acidity and moderate tannins, leading to a smooth and approachable finish.