The 2018 Dolce is youthfully fruity with layered aromas ranging from stone fruits to citrus, peach, apricot, and candied orange. In the mouth, the citrus aromas shift to a nectar of similar mixed fruits along with flavors of butterscotch and baking spices. The juicy and watering entry evolves into a creamy and coating texture that is rich yet balanced through the finish.

Dolce’s 20-acre vineyards are located in Coombsville, east of the city of Napa, and are situated at the base of the Vaca Mountains, which define the eastern border of the valley. The volcanic soil is loose and well drained, and the west-facing vineyard is protected from the prevailing winds so that the damp, morning fog of autumn—a very important factor in the development of Botrytis cinerea—hangs longer amongst the vines, often until midday. A combination of high humidity followed by drying conditions encourages, but does not guarantee, the growth of Botrytis. As the mold develops, its coverage is seemingly random with individual berries succumbing to Botrytis at different rates, if at all.