At a glance

Producer

Cordero di Montezemolo

Region

Dolcetto d'Alba, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Dolcetto

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$17-25 USD

Tasting profile

Vivid purple-red color; aromas of violets, black cherry, plum, and a hint of almond; flavors of ripe red and black fruits, subtle earthiness, and a slight bitter almond finish. Low oak influence, primary fruit-driven style.

Evolution: Primary fruit aromas become softer and more integrated; floral and almond notes become more pronounced with bottle age.

At peak: Expected to show best balance of vibrant fruit, floral notes, and subtle savory/almond character during 2022-2024. Beyond this, freshness declines and structure softens.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to moderately high, giving freshness and lift

Tannins

Moderate, soft and gentle typical for Dolcetto

Alcohol

Approximately 13% ABV

Aging potential

Short to moderate; 4-6 years from vintage is standard for this style and price tier

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2021 to 2024

Optimal window

2020 to 2025

Current status

Mature but fresh; entering optimal window

Current condition

At peak; will hold for another year or two with proper cellaring but not intended for extended aging.

Dolcetto d'Alba, especially from a reputable producer like Cordero di Montezemolo, is crafted for early to mid-term consumption. The 2019 vintage, a classic year for Piedmont, delivers good fruit and balance but is not structured for long aging. At 5 years post-vintage, it remains fresh and enjoyable, but beyond 6 years it will generally lose vibrancy and depth. Wines at this price and style level rarely improve with extended bottle age.

Food pairing

Enjoy with pizza, pasta with tomato sauces, charcuterie, grilled sausages, mushroom risotto, or Italian-style roast chicken. Also pairs well with semi-firm cheeses like Taleggio or Fontina.

Serving

Serving temperature

15-17°C / 59-62°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Cordero di Montezemolo practices certified organic viticulture, uses mechanical weed control instead of herbicides, hand-harvesting, biodiversity conservation (planting trees on estate), composting, minimal use of sulfur and copper, and solar panel use on estate. Packaging uses partially recycled glass and corks from sustainable forests.

Cordero di Montezemolo is recognized for sustainable and organic viticulture, completing organic certification for all vineyards. The estate implements strong soil and ecosystem stewardship, water conservation, and energy-saving initiatives. Transportation emissions are typical for Italian exports, but overall the producer rates highly for environmental responsibility compared to many peers in Piedmont.