A Journey Through Time: The Historical Significance and Evolving Allure of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore

Introduction: Nestled in the rolling hills of the Monferrato region in Piedmont, Italy, lies the little-known yet captivating wine appellation of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore. This enchanting territory, whose name translates to "Sweet Black One of Ovada," holds a rich and intriguing history that dates back several centuries. In this review, we embark on a fascinating journey through time to explore the historical significance, unique grape varietals, and distinctive wine style of this captivating region.

Historical Significance: The origins of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore can be traced back to the late 19th century when phylloxera devastated European vineyards, forcing winemakers to graft their vines onto American rootstocks. This catastrophic event led to a renewed focus on local grape varieties, and Dolcetto, with its robust nature and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, became one of the preferred choices for rebuilding the vineyards.

Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore's historical significance is further strengthened by its proximity to the ancient Roman town of Ovada, which was a significant trading hub during the Roman Empire. Archaeological evidence suggests that wine production in this region dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of Italy's oldest continuously produced wines.

Grapes: The heart and soul of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore are its grapes, primarily the ancient Dolcetto variety. The name "Dolcetto" is derived from the Italian word for 'little sweet one,' reflecting the grape's small, black berries, which possess a natural sweetness and thick, velvety skin. The region also permits the use of other local grape varieties, such as Barbera and Bonarda, but it is Dolcetto that truly defines the essence of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore.

Wine Style: The wine style of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore is characterized by its full-bodied, velvety texture, rich fruit flavors, and distinct aromas of ripe red fruit, spices, and a hint of earthiness. The wines possess good acidity, which provides a pleasing balance to their natural sweetness. These wines are typically aged for a minimum of one year in oak barrels or cement tanks, imparting subtle tannins and adding complexity to the final product.

Food Pairings: Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore pairs beautifully with a diverse range of foods due to its balanced acidity and full-bodied texture. Some traditional pairings include hearty meat dishes such as game, roasted meats, and ragù Bolognese. The wine's natural affinity for rich, savory flavors also makes it an excellent companion to aged cheeses, particularly those with a strong character.

Conclusion: The historical significance of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore is rooted in its deep connections to the ancient Roman civilization, its resilience during times of adversity, and its ability to produce wines that continue to captivate and delight. As we move forward into the future, it is our hope that this captivating region and its enchanting wines will continue to be cherished and celebrated by wine enthusiasts around the world. Cheers to the rich history and bright future of Dolcetto di Ovada Superiore!