Dolcetto

Dolcetto
Grape variety Dolcetto
Synonyms Ormeasco, Dolsin, and Dolsin Nero are some known synonyms for Dolcetto.
Grape colour Red grape
History The Dolcetto grape has a rich history, first mentioned in a document from Dogliani in 1593, where farmers were advised to let their grapes fully mature before harvesting. The first scientific account of this grape variety dates back to 1798, provided by Giuseppe Nuvolone Pergamo, the deputy director of the Turin Agricultural Society at the time.
The grape was later described by Giorgio Gallesio in his work Pomona italiana, an exposition on fruit trees, which is now freely available online. Gallesio had previously identified Dolcetto as a native grape of Monferrato in 1812 and expounded on its characteristics in his work.
Ampelographic features The Dolcetto grape has distinct ampelographic features. The leaf is medium-small, pentagonal, and pentalobate, with a red area near the petiole. The top is smooth and glabrous, with a dark green color and red hues near the edges.
The bunch is medium to large, spatulate in shape, and pyramidal with wings. The peduncle is quite large and brown. The grape itself is medium in size, round, and has a persistent navel. The skin is thin and black, while the pulp is juicy, very sweet, and flavorful.
Characteristics of the wine The wine produced from Dolcetto grapes can vary significantly in characteristics depending on the specific region, even if they are closely located. However, in general, the wine has a deep ruby red color and an intense, fruity, and floral aroma. The taste is noted for its freshness, good pseudo-caloric sensations, light tannicity, discreet softness, and texture, with a pleasant fruity persistence.