by Andrew Chalk
Renowned for its unique customer experiences in their two striking Italian inspired properties, Del Dotto Estates and Vineyards hosts small groups of visitors in their Napa Valley caves and offers samples directly from barrels. A key component of the Del Dotto experience is learning about the different types of oak barrels–not all barrels are alike! American oak has a wider grain compared to its French counterpart and as result tends to lend itself to notes of sweet spices such as vanilla and coconut. French oak tends to impart less bold but savory flavors, including hints of dark chocolate and coffee.
Taste how these different types of oak influence how the wines taste and how they will age with Del Dotto’s 2019 St. Helena Mountain American Oak Carved & Grooved Cabernet Sauvignon (SRP $250) and 2019 St. Helena Mountain French Oak Taransaud Cabernet Sauvignon (SRP $250).
Early pioneers in experimenting with a wide-ranging selection of the world’s finest oak barrels, Del Dotto takes a deep dive in researching how barrels are created, including the hand selection of specific forests, different levels of toasting the wood and different cooperage techniques. With each barrel they custom create "the spice rack" to enhance their estate fruit grown from coveted appellations throughout Napa Valley.
Guests today can barrel taste in their caves at both properties–the majestic Venetian inspired Del Dotto Estate in St. Helena and Piazza Del Dotto, reminiscent of a Tuscan villa, located in the Oakville appellation, just north of Yountville. They offer their signature cave and barrel tasting experience as well as bites and pairings known as Del Dotto Delicacies at the Piazza property.