CORTESE
Italy’s Crisp Classic From Gavi
Cortese is a white grape best known for producing Gavi, a dry, elegant wine from Piedmont in northwestern Italy. Prized for its clean citrus profile and subtle minerality, Cortese has long been a favorite pairing for seafood thanks to its refreshing acidity and light body.
Key Characteristics
Cortese wines are light, zesty, and clean, with delicate aromatics and a signature almond finish.
Style
White
Body
Light
Acidity
Medium to high
Primary Grapes
Cortese
Typical Flavors
Lemon, green apple, white peach, almond, wet stone
Origin & History
Cortese has been cultivated in Piedmont since at least the 17th century. Though found in a few Italian regions, it’s synonymous with Gavi (DOCG), a town and appellation in southern Piedmont. Its reputation grew in the mid-20th century when it became known as “the white wine of Milan.”
How It’s Made
Most Cortese wines are fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity. Some premium bottlings may spend time on lees for added texture, but oak aging is rare.
Notable Regions
Cortese thrives in northern Italy, particularly in Piedmont.
Gavi DOCG
Cortese di Gavi
The benchmark for the variety, producing structured, mineral-driven wines with finesse.
Alessandria & Monferrato
Lesser-known areas that produce Cortese with softer acidity and floral notes.
Food Pairings
Cortese’s clean profile and balanced acidity make it a natural companion to Mediterranean fare.
Appetizers
Crostini, grilled vegetables, seafood salad
Seafood
Oysters, scallops, linguine with clams
Cheeses
Mozzarella, young pecorino, robiola
Vegetables
Asparagus, artichokes, herbed zucchini
How to Serve It
Glassware
White wine glass to enhance citrus and minerality
Temperature
45–50°F (7–10°C)
Storage
Upright, cool, and out of direct light
Fun Fact
The name “Gavi” on a bottle is interchangeable with “Cortese di Gavi” — both refer to the same wine made from Cortese grapes within the Gavi DOCG zone.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Gavi, showcasing the Cortese grape’s signature freshness, elegance, and mineral precision.
Beni di Batasiolo
A trusted Piedmont producer crafting lively, fruit-driven Gavi with a clean, refreshing finish.
La Scolca
A benchmark estate in Gavi di Gavi, known for refined, age-worthy expressions of Cortese with distinct finesse.
Marchesi di Barolo
A historic name in Piedmont offering balanced, approachable Gavi that blends tradition with polished style.
Recommended Pours
Beni Di Batasiolo - Gavi 2023 — A bright and refreshing white with notes of green apple, citrus, and a clean, mineral finish.
La Scolca - Gavi di Gavi Bianco Secco 2022 — A crisp and elegant expression of Cortese, offering white peach, almond, and vibrant acidity.
Marchesi di Barolo - Gavi 2022 — A delicate and well-balanced Gavi with floral aromatics, lemon zest, and a subtle, stony backbone.