Tasting notes

The 2020 Dolcetto d’Alba shows the varied facets of the 2020 growing season, with both warm- and cool-season characteristics. The aromas of ripe plums and blackberries rise from the glass, modulated by spicy elements and a distinct mineral note.

On the palate, the wine is enveloping, round and drinkable, elegant, rich yet balanced and showing good acidity on the finish. There is a distinct aspect of fresh red grapes, surrounded by blackberry and blueberry flavors.

The moderate, ripe tannins give the wine a sense of completeness and mid-weight structure. It finishes with bright acids and elegant lingering tannins.

Ratings for the vintage 2020
Doctor Wine 92 punti 
Vinous 89 points

Download wine description

Evolution of the vintage 2020

The year 2020 began with a mild winter, relatively dry and with few truly cold days. January was mostly sunny and work could begin in the vineyards on the pruning and cleaning of the trellises. Some snow and precipitation finally arrived in the middle of February. Late February warmed up and the tying of the fruiting canes became crucial as indications were for a precocious spring - the sap was moving at the end of the month. 

Early March saw continued good weather, unseasonably warm and dry, and we rushed to finish the winter work.

By mid-March, the weather had cooled considerably and the rate of vegetative growth slowed significantly, allowing us to catch up a bit. In April, weather patterns were established that continued nearly the whole growing season: 4-5 days of brilliantly sunny days, followed by 1 or 2 days of rain. This gave plenty of water to both the plants and the semi-depleted groundwater reserves, but complicated the treatments schedule. The extra humidity brought on serious infections of Peronospora in the region. Luca’s long experience on dealing with this fungal infection allowed us to keep ahead of the disease and we saw no significant damage in 2020. Flowering in late May was under good conditions and brought a good crop set.

Some real heat arrived at the end of July, but was mitigated by the continuing sun-rain pattern and the deep groundwater reserves that had built up. Warm weather continued until mid-September, when a series of thunderstorms cooled off the region. The next few weeks were exemplary, with mild, bright sunny days and very crisp, cool nights. The harvest period was easy and the fruit ripened evenly and consistently.

Harvest took place from September 14t^th until 21st. .