Franco Serra Dolcetto d'Alba, 2020

Dolcetto means "little sweetie," and, for years, I avoided buying it because I assumed it would be sweet or semi-dry. That was a false assumption; Dolcetto is nearly always made into a dry wine. Yet compared to a "big wine" such as a Barossa Shiraz, it is definitely a "little sweetie" to enjoy frequently with a first course or a family meal.

Bright ruby red, clear and bright. Fresh red fruit--raspberries, stawberries, cherries on the nose To preserve the freshness and fruit, the winemaker has avoided use of any new oak. And I approve. Moderate acidity allows a clear flow of fruit flavors from front to back countered by skin tannins and a pleasingly bitter hint of almonds.

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