2024 Sottimano Dolcetto d'Alba Bric del Salto, Piedmont

The 2024 Dolcetto d'Alba Bric del Salto is gorgeous. Aromatic, gracious and light on its feet, the 2024 is an absolute delight. It reminds me of the wines of another era when ripeness and alcohols were more modest than they are today, but with a contemporary sense of precision. Blue fruit, lavender, mint, spice and licorice caress the palate. This is lovely.

91 points vinous.com

In the rolling hills of Barbaresco, the Sottimano family has quietly built a reputation for crafting soulful, terroir driven wines that balance tradition with thoughtful evolution. Founded in the late 1960s by Rino Sottimano and now led by his son Andrea, the estate farms organically and works with minimal intervention to preserve the authenticity of each vineyard site. Dolcetto d’Alba Bric del Salto offers a fascinating glimpse into Piedmont’s everyday drinking culture, showing how even the region’s more approachable varieties can deliver depth, character and unmistakable regional charm.

A vibrant deep ruby purple colour introduces an expressive nose of black cherry, blueberry and ripe plum layered with notes of violet, almond skin and a touch of earthy spice. There is a joyful immediacy to the aromatics, fruit driven yet nuanced, capturing Dolcetto’s naturally generous personality.

The palate is medium bodied and energetic, with juicy dark berry fruit framed by fine tannins and refreshing acidity. Subtle flavours of cocoa, liquorice and crushed herbs add dimension, finishing with the gentle, classic bitter almond note that makes Dolcetto so appealing at the table. Designed for earlier enjoyment, this wine will drink beautifully over the next three to six years while retaining its lively balance.

Perfect for rustic feasting and convivial moments, it pairs effortlessly with wood fired pizza, tajarin with sausage ragù, grilled pork chops or roasted vegetables with rosemary. Sottimano Dolcetto d’Alba Bric del Salto brings the warmth and authenticity of Piedmont to the glass, ideal for relaxed long lunches, bustling family tables and evenings where the mood calls for something vibrant, honest and deliciously drinkable.