Dolcè lies in the Adige Valley, at the northernmost tip of the province of Verona, in a landscape shaped by the river’s course, rocky gorges and the slopes leading into the Vallagarina. Viticulture takes place in a transitional environment, where the Alpine influence combines with the moderating effect of the air currents from Lake Garda: the daily temperature variations favour gradual ripening, distinct aromas and good acidity retention.
The vineyards are situated on alluvial and detrital soils, rich in pebbles and mineral fragments, which provide drainage and warmth for the vines. Alongside the grape varieties permitted under the Valpolicella appellation – with Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella taking centre stage in the reds – Dolcè retains a special connection with Enantio, a native grape variety of the valley, which possesses a distinct territorial identity and is suited to producing structured, fresh and long-lived red wines. There are also white wines, including those made from Pinot Grigio, which highlight the area’s breezy and mineral character.
Local tradition involves red vinification, maceration on the skins and, for the richer expressions, the drying of the grapes followed by ageing. The result is a diverse wine landscape, capable of combining the character of Valpolicella’s grape varieties with the unique character of the Adige Valley.
