SAQ Langhe DOC Dolcetto Colombè 2022, Ratti
Follow this link for SAQ: https://www.saq.com/fr/15302301
Great house at a low price
At the pinnacle of Italian appellations, Piedmont stands out inexorably for both its Barolo and its Barbaresco. The former of these two DOCGs has brought a good number of families to fame, including the one that interests us this week.
Indeed, like a whole generation, Renato Ratti is a perfect example of that Italy breaking free from traditions to transform its viticulture. Whether through his Burgundian vision of terroir and its crus, or by drawing inspiration from major corporations (Cinzano) to rethink the commercial side of wine, he quickly became a key player in the revival of Piedmont. His Marcenasco cru would even be revolutionary in the 70s, shifting the emphasis of fermentation and maceration toward aging. While Ratti rebelled, Piedmont rose.
Even though we are very far from the award-winning Nebbiolo here, the house's expertise is present in this Dolcetto. From their Mango property (south of Barbaresco) and at the altitude of the Dogliani commune, they produce a red focused on fruit, fresh with cherries, wild raspberries, and hints of anise. The palate is light and crisp. The whole thing is glorious, like an 18th-century Piedmontese soldier!
At 12% alcohol, it’s no surprise to find yourself opening a second bottle…
- To pair it with: A classic beef carpaccio, and don’t forget a Parmesan worthy of the name,
- Anecdote: The bottle as a container for this wine has existed since the 18th century to distinguish wines from the Alba region. In 1973, Renato Ratti revived the idea of identifying the terroir with the bottle and its unique shape. The Albeisa was reborn.
- To better understand Piedmont: Sign up for the mailing list for our back-to-school workshop.
- To explore Piedmont one Dolcetto at a time: Dolcetto d’Alba DOC 2022, G.D. Vajra $25 at the SAQ (13553413)
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