Cortese is the Piedmontese grape behind Gavi, a crisp, elegant dry white from the hills near the Ligurian coast. Restrained and refreshing, it offers green apple, lemon, white peach and a delicate floral, almond-tinged minerality, with bright acidity and a clean, dry finish. Subtle rather than showy, Gavi is a classic, food-friendly Italian seafood white.
Structure
| Body | Cortese gives high-acid, low-alcohol wines of finesse rather than power. The best Gavi, from the Gavi DOCG around the town of the same name, balances citrus freshness with a mineral, slightly saline texture. Mostly unoaked to preserve its delicate, crisp character. |
|---|---|
| Acidity | High, crisp. |
| Tannin | None (white). |
| Finish | Clean and crisp, with citrus, almond and mineral. |
| Aroma | Green apple, lemon, white peach, white flowers and almond. |
Serving: 8–11°C (46–52°F). · Decanting: None needed.
Cortese drinking window
| Tier | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| Everyday | Drink within 1–2 years. |
| Gavi DOCG | Best 1–4 years. |
| Top single-vineyard | 3–7 years. |
| Vintage | Drinking window |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Drink now. |
| 2023 | Drink now to 2026. |
| 2024 | Drink now to 2027. |
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Best dishes to pair with Cortese
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Cortese — questions answered
What wine is Cortese used for?
It is the grape behind Gavi, the crisp, elegant dry white from southeast Piedmont near the Ligurian border.
What does Gavi taste like?
Restrained green apple, lemon and white peach with a delicate almond-and-mineral finish — subtle and refreshing.
Is Cortese age-worthy?
Most is best young and fresh, though top single-vineyard Gavi can hold and develop over several years.
What food pairs with Cortese?
Light seafood, shellfish, risotto and antipasti suit its crisp, clean, food-friendly style.