even wines made from Dolcetto grapes have received their Denominazione di Origine Controllata recognition. Four types of Dolcetto had been distinguished as long ago as 1924 and the number has since risen to seven. Among them is the Dolcetto d'Asti.Dolcetto d'Asti is made in the Monferrato, which is without doubt the area in Piedmont where winemaking is most extensively pursued. Within the Monferrato, the production zone, which is bordered by the so-called Langhe Albesi, consists of the territory of 24 communes. In that strip of land, the growers find that Dolcetto is a viable alternative to the cultivation of Barbera. It makes a young wine that is easy to drink and that is adapted to consumption with dishes of moderate structures. It is made only from Dolcetto grapes and, despite its name, it has a dry and bitterish flavor.
The first certain citation of the Dolcetto variety is found in the Istruzione, written by Count Nuvolone at the end of the 18th century. The book contains some information about a wine known as "Dosset'' and about its production area. Some experts argue that Dolcetto originated in France. But there is greater support for the theory that Dolcetto appeared in the Monferrato around the year 1000.
The variety was soon being grown throughout the entire Monferrato as well as in the western part of Liguria, the Oltrepò Pavese and parts of the districts around Milan and Piacenza.
