LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
Nestled in the southern expanses of Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria, the Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG is a gem of viticultural artistry. This region, characterized by its undulating hills, crafts a tableau of sun-drenched vineyards interspersed with patches of shade, creating an ideal setting for the cultivation of the Dolcetto grape.
With an annual production hovering around a modest 680 hectoliters, the wines from this region are both rare and cherished. The Dolcetto grape, the heart and soul of this DOCG, thrives in the hilly terrains, drawing nourishment from the soil and basking in the region's unique microclimate. The result is wines that are a genuine reflection of the land from which they spring.
The Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG proudly offers two notable wines: the Rosso Superiore and the Rosso Riserva. The Rosso Superiore is a vibrant expression of the Dolcetto grape, capturing its youthful exuberance and fruit-forward character. On the other hand, the Rosso Riserva delves deeper into the grape's potential, undergoing extended aging to produce a wine that is rich, complex, and layered, a testament to the region's capability to produce wines with depth and longevity.
In essence, the Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG stands as a beacon of quality and tradition in Piedmont's rich tapestry of winemaking, offering wines that are as evocative of their origin as they are delightful to the palate
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
The Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG is beautifully situated in the southern reaches of Italy's renowned Piedmont region. Specifically, it lies within the province of Alessandria, a landscape interwoven with rolling hills, verdant valleys, and ancient vineyards. This DOCG is centered around the town of Ovada, which serves as both a geographical and cultural anchor for the region.
The Consorzio di Tutela Ovada DOCG, a dedicated organization committed to preserving the integrity and quality of wines from this sub-region, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the heritage and traditions that make Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG a unique confluence of natural beauty and winemaking tradition.
Historically significant and naturally blessed, the area is surrounded by the picturesque beauty of the Apennine Mountains, which not only provide a dramatic backdrop but also influence the region's microclimate and viticultural practices. The vineyards here are strategically nestled on the hillsides, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and natural drainage, conditions that are ideal for the cultivation of the Dolcetto grape.
Furthermore, its proximity to both the Ligurian Sea to the south and the Alpine range to the north ensures a balanced climatic influence, making Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG a unique confluence of natural beauty and winemaking tradition.
The Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG, poised gracefully in the southern Piedmont region, benefits from a nuanced and distinct climate, which is instrumental in sculpting the profile of its wines.
Largely classified as a temperate continental climate, the region experiences marked seasonal variations, with cold winters and warm, sun-filled summers. However, its position, nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Ligurian Sea, introduces certain maritime influences. The sea, not far to the south, acts as a tempering force, moderating extreme temperatures and bestowing upon the region gentle breezes that not only cool the vineyards but also ensure healthy air circulation, reducing the risk of vine diseases.
Rainfall is relatively well-distributed throughout the year, though spring and autumn tend to see the most precipitation, providing the vines with the necessary hydration during key growth and maturation phases. The presence of the surrounding hills and mountains also plays a role in the region's microclimate, offering protection from harsh winds and ensuring that temperature fluctuations between day and night are ideal for the gradual maturation of the Dolcetto grape.
This diurnal temperature variation, a signature of the region, aids in the preservation of acidity in the grapes while allowing the development of aromatic compounds, ensuring wines that are both vibrant and aromatic. In essence, the Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG's climate is a harmonious blend of continental and maritime influences, each contributing to the unique expression of its celebrated wines.
The soils of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG are a tapestry of complexity, a culmination of millennia of geological activity and climatic influences. These varied soils play a crucial role in the distinctive expression of the Dolcetto grape cultivated in this region.
The Dolcetto grape, often celebrated as the "little sweet one" in Italian, has found a distinctive home in the Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG. Known for its early ripening and delicate nature, this grape thrives in the picturesque hills of southern Piedmont. Here, the altitude plays a pivotal role in its cultivation; the vineyards, caressed by gentle slopes and optimal sun exposure, ascend to an elevation of up to 600 meters, the maximum altitude permitted by the DOCG regulations.
Dolcetto from Ovada Superiore is revered for its unique expression, a direct result of the terroir and meticulous viticulture practices. In the glass, it often unveils a deep ruby hue, an invitation to its alluring aromatics. The nose is typically greeted with fragrances of black cherry, violet, and hints of licorice. On the palate, Dolcetto presents a harmonious balance between its soft tannins and a vibrant acidity. While it retains a fresh and fruity profile, the wines from the Ovada Superiore region often exhibit a certain depth and complexity, a tribute to the distinctive soil and climatic conditions. Whether enjoyed younger,in the case of the Rosso Superiore wines, or more aged, in the case of Rosso Riserva, these wines possess an inherent versatility, pairing gracefully with a variety of dishes, making them a cherished choice for both casual sipping and more festive occasions.
Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore DOCG, a region renowned for its commitment to preserving the authenticity of its wines, boasts two exceptional expressions of the Dolcetto grape: Rosso Superiore and Rosso Riserva. Crafted from 100% Dolcetto, these wines capture the pure essence of the grape and the region's unique terroir. While both wines stem from the same varietal, their distinct aging processes - a minimum of 12 months for the Superiore and a year for the Riserva - set them apart, each revealing a unique side of the Dolcetto's personality.
Rosso Superiore:With a minimum aging of 12 months, the Rosso Superiore unfolds as a vibrant portrayal of the Dolcetto grape. In the glass, it radiates a brilliant ruby red, setting the stage for an aromatic journey marked by notes of ripe cherries, fresh violets, and a subtle hint of almonds. On the palate, the wine is elegantly structured, showcasing a harmonious blend of fruit-forward flavors balanced by a refreshing acidity. Its moderate tannins make it exceptionally approachable, a wine that resonates with both novices and connoisseurs alike.
Rosso Riserva:Elevating the Dolcetto experience, the Rosso Riserva, with its extended aging of a year, presents a deeper and more intricate dimension. Its hue is a profound ruby, hinting at the richness contained within. The bouquet is more evolved, offering layers of dark berries, plum, and a whisper of spice. The additional aging imparts a fuller body, with mature tannins that intertwine seamlessly with its vibrant acidity. Every sip is a testament to the grape's potential, culminating in a finish that lingers, inviting reflection and appreciation.
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