Learning More About Dolcetto Wine
The number of consumers across the globe who are turning to wine as their tipple of choice continues to grow. In part, this is due to the increased number of vineyards that are springing up all across the globe – meaning that there is now more variety for those consumers to choose from than ever before. The increase n the number of ‘New World’ wine producers (those outsides of traditional wine-producing nations in the Western Hemisphere) in countries such as the United States, Argentina, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia (among very many others) has also driven prices downwards – there is now not only more variety – but also great value for money wines on the market.
However, this has not meant that traditional ‘Old World’ wine-producing nations are out of the game. These nations such as France, Portugal, Spain and Italy (once again this list goes on) are now changing their marketing tactics – and making more of an effort to ensure that their wines can compete on the global stage – not only as far as quality is concerned – but also in terms of price.
One of the wines that is successfully doing this comes out of Italy – Dolcetto wine. This red varietal has long had a reputation of being the perfect table wine. It is not too presumptuous and can be described as ‘cheerful’. It is a simple pleasure and stands apart from the wines that possibly take themselves (and are taken) more seriously – and are in turn not only enjoyed by wine experts but also may represent a significant investment.
Dolcetto, when translated from Italian into English, means the ‘Little Sweet One‘ – however, this may be selling the pleasures of Dolcetto wine a little short. It is today not noticeably heavy of sugar – but it’s measured tannins and tastes of Blueberry and Red Cherry (and highlights of chocolate and baking spice means that is it is perfect for an evening of relaxed enjoyment. In fact, this wine is most often enjoyed in its production region of Piedmont in Italy as an accompaniment to small evening snacks and as a prelude to a heavier dinner. But don’t exclude Dolcetto from consideration when it does come time for that evening main course. However, due to the fact that this wine may perhaps lack the complexity of other red wine choices it should be matched with simple fare – such as pasta or even pizza. It also pairs wonderfully with meat dishes that are not overly heavy on complex flavor – simple, wholesome meals.
All this said it may be possible to enjoy a more complex Dolcetto wine. In the Dogliani region of Italy it dominates the wine landscape. this means that vineyards have focused on producing a Dolcetto that is riper and richer. this version of the wine might very well benefit from some time in the cellar.
Dolcetto is well worth exploring for those who want their wine unpretentious – perfect for a casual evening spent with friends and loved ones.