2020 Monterustico Dogliani Dolcetto

This Dogliani DOCG is from the wonderful diversity of Monterustico estate vineyards, located in what is considered the home of the greatest and most structured Dolcetto wines. Monterustico Dogliani Dolcetto is a wine of power and depth yet possesses lift and energy. It’s a Dogliani for the table that won’t mind being forgotten for a few years in the cellar. 2019 was the first vintage to be certified organic. The fruit comes from three different vineyards with distinctive terroirs: Monterustico, Casabianca and Zovetto. Monterustico, located 300m up, has predominantly red clay that unleashes depth and power. Casabianca, at 270m, is characterised by a mix of alluvial loam and gravel. The most aromatic and spicy fruit comes from here. Zovetto, the highest of the sites at 340m, features older soils that are mainly composed of white marls. This is the vineyard that contributes elegance and length to the wine. Grapes from vines aged 15 to 45 years old were hand harvested before 18-24 days of gentle maceration. This was followed by six months’ aging in stainless-steel.
The wine is a beautiful, deep violet-purple in colour. The brooding nose is a cornucopia of blueberries, wild berries and delicate mineral nuances. There’s a suggestion of liquorice and Mediterranean herbs, too. The palate is structured yet balanced by wonderful, velvety fruit. With its long and pure finish, this is a wine that promises a long life ahead, and it provides a joyful pairing with a wide range of dishes. – Giuseppe Vaira