2024 G.D. Vajra Dolcetto d’Alba, Piedmont

Pop rocks meet purple plums in this electric Dolcetto that refuses to sit still. Violets and damson fruits burst from the glass with teenage energy, while the palate crackles with fresh blackberries and bright acidity. It's the kind of wine that makes you wish all serious things could be this much fun.

93 points Jeff Porter wineenthusiast.com

From the hills surrounding Barolo and Alba, this Dolcetto captures the everyday soul of Piedmont, a grape made for the table, for conversation and for real food rather than grand statements. G.D. Vajra is one of Piedmont’s most respected family estates, known for combining deep tradition with precision, elegance and an unwavering focus on vineyard expression. Dolcetto d’Alba is treated here with the same care as their more famous Barolo and Barbera, sourced from hillside vineyards on calcareous clay and marl soils that give natural structure, freshness and aromatic lift. While Dolcetto is often thought of as simple and early drinking, Vajra’s approach shows just how expressive and characterful it can be when grown and handled with intent.

The vineyards benefit from good elevation and airflow, helping preserve acidity and aromatic clarity while allowing full flavour development. Vajra’s philosophy leans toward purity and balance, avoiding heavy extraction or excessive oak, so the grape’s natural charm and savoury edge remain front and centre. This is Dolcetto as it is meant to be in Piedmont, vibrant, food driven and deeply connected to local culture, the kind of wine poured at trattorias and family tables rather than cellars and tasting rooms.

In the glass it shows a deep, inky purple with youthful vibrancy. Aromas are immediately inviting, offering black cherry, blueberry and ripe plum, layered with violet, almond skin, liquorice and a subtle earthy note. There is often a faint herbal edge that feels distinctly Piedmontese, like dried mountain herbs or crushed leaves, adding complexity beyond simple fruit.

The palate is medium bodied and energetic, with juicy dark berry fruit balanced by bright acidity and fine, slightly bitter tannins that are a hallmark of Dolcetto. There is a gentle almond like bitterness through the finish that makes it incredibly food friendly and keeps the wine feeling fresh and moreish rather than heavy. Texture is supple but structured, giving enough grip to stand up to rich dishes while staying easy to drink. The finish is clean, savoury and lightly spicy, encouraging another sip and another bite.

This is a natural partner for Piedmontese cuisine and beyond. Think tajarin with ragù, vitello tonnato, pizza, grilled sausages, mushroom pasta, roast chicken, burgers or charcuterie. It is the kind of wine that shines at the table, where its acidity and gentle bitterness cut through fat and richness. Best enjoyed young for its freshness and vibrant fruit, but it will also hold well for three to five years, gaining a little more savoury depth and earthy nuance while keeping its lively core.

Dolcetto may not carry the prestige of Barolo, but in the hands of Vajra it becomes a beautifully honest, expressive red that tells you exactly where it comes from. It is Piedmont in its most drinkable, generous and food loving form, serious enough to satisfy, but relaxed enough to open on a weeknight without a second thought.