Dolcetto

Dolcetto is the third most popular red grape in Piedmont, Italy, yet it is rarely grown in California. It also has an unfortunate name that leads people to believe it is sweet, but it is actually fairly dry with firm and grippy, rustic tannin and clean dark red fruit with spice notes that the grape is famous for. It can seem large and boisterous at first, but is decidedly medium weight and flexible in its food friendliness. Here it is at its best without any hint of oak at all.
 
Recommended pairings: hearty braised red meats with roasted vegetables, barbecued and smoked foods with sweet sauces, and charcuterie.