Cortese

Cortese is instantly recognizable for its zesty, mouthwatering acidity and delicate floral aromas, making it a go-to white wine for those who crave freshness and finesse. In the glass, it typically shows a pale straw color with hints of green, while Riserva bottlings can deepen to a golden hue with age; on the palate, it is light to medium-bodied, virtually tannin-free, and offers clean citrus, green apple, and subtle almond notes. The grape’s natural vibrancy means these wines always feel refreshing, even in warmer climates, but achieving full ripeness is key to avoiding overly sharp acidity, especially in cooler areas. Cortese pairs effortlessly with seafood from the Ligurian coast and lighter fare, and whether still, Frizzante (lightly sparkling), or Spumante (fully sparkling, including Metodo Classico), it always delivers a lively, food-friendly character that sets it apart.

Cortese, especially in its classic Gavi expression, offers a taste profile that is a true reflection of its regional roots and the unique climate of its home in Piedmont.

• Regional Influence Flavors: The mineral backbone—flinty, chalky, and sometimes with a seashell-like salinity—directly mirrors the limestone, marl, clay, flint, and volcanic soils of the region. This sense of place gives Cortese its unmistakable character, setting it apart from more fruit-driven whites.
• Climate Effect on Flavor: The cooling influence of the Ligurian Sea helps preserve the grape’s vibrant acidity and zesty citrus notes (lemon, lime, grapefruit), while allowing for layers of green apple, pear, and occasionally peach, apricot, or honeydew in warmer years. The result is a wine that is always refreshing and mouthwatering, with subtle notes of white flowers (such as acacia, honeysuckle, chamomile, or daisy), sage, thyme, and almond rounding out the palate. With age, Cortese can develop tertiary aromas such as honey, caramel, lanolin, marzipan, or even a gentle petrol nuance.

The character of Cortese is deeply shaped by where it is grown, with each region lending its own expression to the grape’s signature freshness and minerality.

• Piedmont (Gavi DOCG): The benchmark for Cortese, Gavi delivers crisp, mineral-driven wines with vibrant acidity and subtle floral notes, thanks to its unique soils and cool climate.
• Piedmont (Other DOCs): In areas like Cortese dell'Alto Monferrato and Colli Tortonesi, the wines tend to be lighter and more sharply acidic, reflecting cooler conditions and less optimal ripening.
• Lombardy (Oltrepò Pavese): Just east of Piedmont, this region produces Cortese with a slightly softer profile, though it is less renowned than Gavi for quality and distinctiveness.
• Veneto (Garda and Bianco di Custoza DOCs): Here, Cortese is mostly used as a blending grape, contributing freshness and lift to local white blends rather than standing alone.

Cortese’s lively acidity, light body, and subtle minerality make it a go-to partner for a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

• Seafood and Shellfish: The crisp, citrus-driven profile of Cortese shines alongside oysters, scallops, shrimp, mussels, and white fish like sea bass or cod, enhancing their natural flavors without overwhelming their delicate textures.
• Pasta, Risotto, and Pesto: Classic Ligurian pesto Genovese, light pasta with vegetables or seafood, and creamy risottos all benefit from Cortese’s refreshing acidity, which lifts herbal and savory notes while balancing richness.
• Fresh Cheeses and Vegetables: Soft cheeses such as mozzarella, ricotta, and goat cheese, as well as grilled or roasted vegetables—including the notoriously tricky asparagus—find harmony with Cortese’s clean, mineral finish, making it a versatile choice for antipasti and salads.

• Serving Temperature: Serve Cortese well-chilled, ideally between 46–54°F (8–12°C). Opt for the cooler end for lighter styles, and slightly warmer for more complex or aged bottles to highlight their aromas.
• Glassware: Use a standard white wine glass with a moderate bowl and gently tapered rim. This shape helps focus Cortese’s delicate floral and fruity notes while keeping the wine cool.
• Decanting: Most Cortese, especially young Gavi, does not require decanting. Only consider a gentle decant for older bottles with visible sediment.
• Aging Potential: Enjoy most Cortese within 1–3 years, but top-quality Gavi can age 5–10 years or more, developing layered flavors over time.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place at around 55°F (13°C) with moderate humidity. Keep bottles with corks on their side; avoid heat, light, and vibration for best results.