"Dolcetto di Ovada" is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) reserved for a specific red wine of Piedmontese origin.
Grapes
"Dolcetto di Ovada" must be produced in purity, using grapes from vineyards composed of 100% Dolcetto vine. However, the regulations allow the inclusion, up to a maximum of 3%, of grapes from different, non-aromatic vines, suitable for cultivation in Piemonte.
Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties
"Dolcetto di Ovada" is a wine that is ready to drink and has a pleasant ruby red colour, embellished with violet reflections. The aroma is vinous and releases a characteristic scent. The taste is dry and soft, sometimes enriched by fruity and almond elements. It reaches a minimum total alcoholic strength by volume of 11.5% vol.
Grape production area
The production area for "Dolcetto di Ovada" is located in Monferrato and comprises 22 municipalities in the province of Alessandria. The area consists mainly of hills with steep slopes and vineyards are planted at an altitude that never exceeds 400 meters above sea level.
Specificity and historical notes
The cultivation of the "Dolcetto" vine has always characterized the area of Ovada, so much so that its grapes have earned the nickname of Ovada grape or even ovadensis grape (in scientific and naturalistic language). A strong development of production, however, has taken place since 1800.
Source:
MIPAAF - Ministry of agricultural, food and forestry policies
