Francesco Rinaldi, one of the oldest estates in Piedmont, is known for its classic Barolo. Those who prize the elegance and earthiness of Piedmontese reds should seek out Rinaldi’s single-vineyard Dolcetto d’Alba “Roussot.”

In Piedmont, you’ll find winemakers drinking Dolcetto at their own tables ― with salumi, pasta or panini. But this Dolcetto, made with grapes from a vineyard near the famous Cannubi, is in a higher class.
 
Ruby red and fruity, with a bright acidity, the 2009 Dolcetto has a subtle elegance that makes it ideal summer drinking.

Open it with pasta, pizza, grilled sausages. This summer red works with almost anything.

● Region: Piedmont, Italy

● Price: About $20

● Style: Soft and elegant

● What it goes with: Salumi, pasta, panini, grilled sausages

By S. Irene Virbila

(Los Angeles Times)

(McClatchy-Tribune Information Services)