CHIONETTI
Chionetti is a historic family wine estate in Dogliani, in Italy's Piedmont region, renowned particularly for its distinctive expressions of Dolcetto. With deep roots in the Langhe and a strong focus on individual vineyard sites, Chionetti produces elegant, terroir-driven wines that showcase the character and complexity this traditional Piedmontese variety can achieve.
The Chionetti family's connection with viticulture in Dogliani extends across generations. The estate became particularly influential in establishing the reputation of high-quality Dolcetto from the region, demonstrating that the variety can deliver far more than simple everyday red wine when grown on carefully selected hillside vineyards.
Dogliani lies in the southern Langhe, where rolling hills, varied elevations and complex soils create excellent conditions for Dolcetto. Chionetti works with distinctive vineyard sites whose exposures and soil compositions contribute individual personalities to the wines. Careful vineyard management allows these differences to remain evident in the finished bottlings.
Dolcetto is central to the identity of Chionetti. Despite the grape's name, the wines are dry, typically displaying flavours of black cherry, blackberry, plum and blueberry alongside violet, herbs, liquorice and characteristic almond notes. Fresh fruit is balanced by structured tannins and savoury complexity, giving the finest examples excellent definition and versatility at the table.
Chionetti is especially associated with single-vineyard expressions of Dogliani, highlighting how Dolcetto responds to different sites within the appellation. Wines such as those from the celebrated Briccolero vineyard demonstrate the grape's capacity for concentration, structure and development beyond the youthful, fruit-forward style often associated with Dolcetto.
The estate also works with other important Piedmontese varieties, including Nebbiolo and Barbera, providing a broader perspective on the terroirs of the Langhe. Nebbiolo brings floral perfume, red fruit and structured tannins, while Barbera offers vibrant acidity and generous fruit.
Winemaking at Chionetti focuses on preserving vineyard character and varietal expression. Careful harvesting and restrained cellar techniques allow the purity of the fruit, natural freshness and savoury character of the wines to remain at the forefront.
For lovers of authentic Italian wine, Chionetti provides an excellent introduction to the distinctive character of Dogliani and the southern Langhe. Its longstanding commitment to Dolcetto has made the estate an important reference point for one of Piedmont's most traditional red grape varieties.
Shop Chionetti wines online at Wine More Cellars Australia. Discover Dogliani Dolcetto and premium Piedmont wines with Australia-wide shipping.
