2023 Dolcetto
Tasting Notes
Our 2023 Dolcetto underscores Washington’s versatility with Italian varietals, offering a medium-bodied, food-friendly profile with aromas of sweet plum, raspberry preserve, and blackberry compote. The palate reveals cherry juice, subtle red licorice, and savory roasted herbs, all lifted by vibrant acidity and a smooth, silky finish. Enjoy now through 2038, with peak maturity around 2034.
Vineyard Designation
100% Estate Grown
Vintage Notes
The 2023 vintage in Washington State was what we like to call a “normal” year. A mild winter gave way to a cool early spring, followed by record-high temperatures in mid-April that jump-started vine growth. Steady spring weather allowed for healthy development and well-balanced crop loads. June and July brought intense heat (among the hottest on record), accelerating ripening and leading to slightly lower natural acidity. Despite the rapid pace, 2023 produced an exceptional vintage. The whites are vibrant with tropical fruit and crisp acidity, while the reds show depth, dark berry flavors, refined tannins, and great aging potential.
Winemaking Notes
Sourced from our estate vineyard and farmed to reserve-tier standards, this Dolcetto is grown with lower yields to heighten flavor concentration and aromatic intensity. Harvested in early October at peak ripeness, the fruit was fully destemmed (without crushing), optically sorted, and then transferred to small-format fermenters. After a 48-hour cold soak, fermentation began using three complementary yeast strains, each chosen for fruit expression, complexity, or varietal character, ensuring balance and depth. Extraction techniques were balanced, including gentle punch-downs twice daily to promote phenolic development. Fermentation spanned approximately 13 days, with temperatures maintained below 86°F. Post-fermentation, the grapes were gently pressed and transferred directly to French Oak barrels for malolactic fermentation. Upon completion, lees stirring was conducted twice monthly for 3 months, promoting a rounder mouthfeel and a natural softening of the wine. Overall, the wine was aged for 22 months in 100% 2-3-year-old French Oak, allowing the varietal’s exotic aromatics to shine while achieving a creamy, integrated finish without excessive oak influence.
* Produced in a Vegan Manner (No animal byproducts used in the production of this wine)
Food Pairing
• Wood-Fired Sausage & Mushroom Pizza
• Classic Beef and Ricotta Lasagna with Tomato Sauce
• Charcuterie Board with Prosciutto, Aged Salami, and Fontina Cheese
• Herb-Infused Pork or Lamb Meatballs
• Wild Mushroom and Parmesan Risotto
• Grilled Italian Sausages with Roasted Peppers and Onions
• Crispy Bacon and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
- Varietal Composition: 100% Dolcetto
- Appellation: Yakima Valley
- Aging / Barrel Program: 22 months in 100% French oak (2 to 3-year-old barrels)
- Cases Produced: 70
- Alcohol: 13.6%
- pH: 3.71
- Acidity: 6.0 g/L
- Ageability: Cellar through 2038, with optimal maturity in 2034.