Conterno Fantino Dolcetto Part 3 of 3

This is the final part of the "mini-series" on current release Dolcetto that I've been putting together over the last few months.  I've always liked Dolcetto, but overall, I sense the quality of these wines is better than they've ever been.  They're unique and an interesting change of pace from comparably priced Sangiovese based wines. 

The 2011 Conterno-Fantino Dolcetto d'Alba Bricco Bastia is the subject of today's review.  In Piedmontese dialect, "bricco" means slope or ridge. When you see that word on a label, it's typically included at the estate's discretion and is meant to indicate that the vineyard is situated in an optimal location.  Another word you may see with similar meaning, is "Sori". 

The 2011 Conterno-Fantino is dark purple, with bright violet reflections. The nose is redolent with smoke, incense, flowers, and crushed plums.  On the palate the wine is balanced and very terroir driven.  There's mineral, tobacco, dried underbrush, plums and licorice. Very complex and very intriguing.  This 2011 was not as fruit forward as The Pira Dolcetto, but it was more complex overall and I do think it lacked some of the regal attitude that the Clerico displayed.   

You can't go wrong with either of these Dolcetto and it's a variety I need to remind myself to keep in stock. 91 points, about $18.

The 2011 Dolcetto d'Alba Bricco Bastia