Cesare Bussolo 'San Bartolomeo' Dolcetto d'Alba 2023

Cesare Bussolo 'San Bartolomeo' Dolcetto d'Alba 2023 is a precise, beautifully structured, and technically brilliant red wine that serves as a passionate defense of Piedmont's historic Dolcetto grape. Inherited by Bussolo in western La Morra and completely replanted in 2014 to high-density vines, the San Bartolomeo vineyard sits on a unique mix of sand and limestone soils. Pouring a deep ruby color with a transparent purple rim, it reveals a perfumed, highly inviting nose packed with notes of fresh blackberries, wild blueberries, and sour cherries, layered with crushed violets, dried herbs, and a hint of white pepper. On the palate, this medium-bodied red completely defies the cheap, simple reputation often associated with the varietal; vinified entirely in stainless steel to capture pure primary aromatics, it shows an unexpected savory density, refreshing natural acidity, and fine, slightly rustic tannins. Striking a perfect balance between bright berry energy and dry, gravelly earth, this highly limited release (only 4,736 bottles produced) is a seriously charming, elite expression of Dolcetto.

Food Pairing: It is a phenomenal match for classic Italian pizza nights, pasta with rich meat ragù, roasted pork jowl, seared duck breast, or local charcuterie and semi-hard cheeses like Fontina.