Cortese

Cortese’s territory was once part of the city-state of Genoa, and still the grape practically owes more allegiance to Liguria than the region that grows it: Piedmont. The grape was first recorded in the early 17th century at the far southeastern corner of Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria. Cortese is most highly regarded here, where it thrives in the limestone-rich soils of Gavi, and thus is often referred to simply as "Gavi." Because of its freshness and chalky minerality, this white wine commonly populates the wine lists of the seafood restaurants along the Ligurian coast.

Tasting Notes for Cortese

Cortese is a light-bodied dry white wine whose freshness can be attributed to a reasonably high acidity. Cortese wines are expressive of lemon, apple, yellow peach, almond, white flowers and flint.

Perfect Food Pairings for Cortese

Try Cortese with baked sea bass, lobster ravioli, spanakopita, Tigullio chicken or olive & prosciutto antipasti.

Sommelier Secrets for Cortese

Cortese also grows well in the surrounding parts of Piedmont, namely Monferrato a few miles west of Gavi and just over a few hills to the east, in the Colli Tortonesi. Today Cortese has no known related grape varieties.