The 2012 Dolcetto d’Alba is a simple, fruit-driven wine that does a good job of portraying the varietal with rich berry fruit, blackberry and a touch of bitter almond. Previously this wine carried the vineyard name “Trifolera” but starting with the 2012 vintage that designation has been removed. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. The estate was founded in 1971, when Giuseppe Cortese convinced his father to bottle wine instead of selling grapes. Today, it is run by the next generation of the family, Pier Carlo and Tiziana. They just finished enlarging their winery and the tasting room, with terraces that look out at the four hectares they own in the prestigious Rabaja cru. Importer: Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The fruit is a bit shy, but this red is otherwise balanced and persistent. The cherry and tobacco notes linger. Drink now through 2016. 840 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Dolcetto d'Alba Select to Add