Massolino Dolcetto d’Alba 2023

Massolino is a Langhe institution, established in Serralunga d'Alba in 1896 and central to the defence of Barolo and Barbaresco, but Dolcetto is the everyday red of Piedmont and the early drinking counterpoint to the estate's Nebbiolo. The grape ripens earlier than Nebbiolo and naturally gives deep colour, low acidity, soft tannins and dark fruit, with the faint almond bitterness on the finish that gives it character. The wine is made entirely in stainless steel, with no oak, a choice that locks in the fresh, primary fruit and the grape's bright purple colour rather than adding wood flavour or oxidative weight. The calcareous marl soils and the hillside aspect of the Serralunga area, the same terroir that gives the estate's Barolo its backbone, lend the Dolcetto definition and a savoury edge. It is a deep, vivid purple. The nose shows black cherry, plum and red berries with a peppery, earthy lift. The palate is medium bodied, juicy and round, the soft tannins and that signature almond bitterness closing a fresh, dry finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, no decanting needed, with pasta, roast pork or charcuterie.