Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Toccata – Dolcetto Fresco / 2023
Santa Barbara County AVA – California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
Inspired by Italy’s playful Vino Novello tradition, this is a spirited, fruit-forward expression of Dolcetto made in Santa Barbara County. Produced from 100% estate-grown fruit sourced from the Lucas & Lewellen family’s Los Alamos Valley vineyards, this wine also marks an important milestone for the winery as their first bottling crafted using carbonic maceration. The result is a lively, aromatic, and freshness-driven red that feels immediate and vibrant.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe red cherries lead the profile, supported by delicate clove spice and aromatic herbal tones. Juicy fruit character remains at the forefront, balanced by subtle savory nuances that add dimension without weighing the wine down.

Mouthfeel
Light-bodied and energetic with soft tannins and refreshing acidity. The texture is supple and easygoing, finishing crisp, clean, and irresistibly moreish.

Food Pairings
Charcuterie boards, margherita pizza, grilled sausages, roasted chicken, or simple pasta dishes with herbs and olive oil.

Verdict
A joyful, modern take on Dolcetto that prioritizes freshness, drinkability, and charm. Light, expressive, and versatile, this is a red wine built for casual enjoyment while still offering varietal character and balance.

Did You Know?
Carbonic maceration, famously used in Beaujolais, emphasizes primary fruit aromas and freshness while softening tannins—making wines like this ideal for chilling slightly and drinking young. — 4 months ago

Michael Fischer

8.9

What do you do after a day of wine tasting? Open a bottle when you get home. Tons of dark fruit. Great mouth feel. Dry enough to pair with charcuterie and hummus. A really great day!!! — 10 years ago

with Shirley and Jorge

Jim Scriven

10

One of my favorites! Unique Lodi flavor. — 13 years ago

Ron R

9.1

Crowd pleaser.
Finally at a resto in Cabos with a deep wine list. This was what we could afford. Mx is nosebleed central!
Manta, Cabos San Lucas, Mx. — 3 years ago

with Anne-marie

Frank Bragg

9.2

Steak night & wedding planning with Lucas & David. This wine was amazing - can't imagine if we had given it a few more years..... — 10 years ago

Whit Dulin

9.4

One of the best rose I've had. Not too sweet. And balanced. — 11 years ago

bharat

9.2

Giving this a high rating cause I'm not a big Zin fan but this wine was amazing. Nice balance all the way around. Need to go to Lucas and pick some more up. Enjoyed on Father's Day 2021 — 4 years ago

Katie

9.1

Smooth very pleasant. Would buy again — 7 years ago

Chris Panella

9.0

This is Lucas Winery Malbec 2012. We have enjoyed many bottles of it. Surprised it doesn't appear in Delectable software. — 10 years ago

Jim Scriven

10

Crisp, with no nasty bite or aftertaste. Again, Lucas delivers! That's why I have it shipped all the way up here to Alaska from Lodi, CA! — 13 years ago