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Cortese
Cortese is a white grape variety originating from the Piedmont region in Italy and is most widely known as the main variety used in producing the dry white wines of Gavi. It is also grown in other regions of Piedmont and in the Lombardy region.
Colour, Aromas and Taste Profile
Cortese has a light greenish yellow hue. Its aroma is characterised by floral and fruity notes of white flowers, peach and citrus. The taste profile is dry and crisp with a medium body and a good acidity.
Regional Features & Food Pairings
Cortese is mainly grown in the Piedmont region of Italy, where it is used to produce the famous Gavi appellation. It is also grown in the Lombardy region and other parts of Piedmont. Cortese is a relatively low-yielding and early ripening variety that is relatively resistant to disease. It prefers warm, sunny and dry climates and performs best on soils that are well-drained and composed of clay and limestone. The winemaking process involves long and slow fermentations at low temperatures. Gavi is the most famous wine made from Cortese and is a dry, crisp and light-bodied white wine. It has aromas of white flowers, peach and citrus, and a good acidity. Other Piedmont wines made from Cortese include Colli Tortonesi and Monferrato. Cortese wines are best paired with light dishes such as seafood, salads and white meats.
Foods to pair with Cortese:
Asian food
Fish
Light meat
Salad
Fun Fact about Cortese
Cortese is also known as "Star of Gavi" in south-eastern Piemonte, north-west Italy.
Top Wines with Cortese
Villa Sparina Gavi
Villa Sparina
Villa Sparina Gavi is a premium white wine produced by Villa Sparina, a renowned winery located in the Gavi appellation of Piedmont, Italy. The wine is made from 100% Cortese grapes grown in the estate's vineyards, which are characterized by their high altitude and mineral-rich soils. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, gentle pressing, and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve the wine's freshness and fruitiness. Villa Sparina Gavi is a crisp and elegant wine with aromas of white flowers, citrus, and green apple, and a refreshing acidity that makes it a perfect match for seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Salad
Seafood
La Scolca Gavi dei Gavi (Black label)
La Scolca
La Scolca Gavi dei Gavi (Black label) is a premium white wine produced by La Scolca winery in the Gavi DOCG appellation in the Piedmont region of Italy. Made exclusively from the Cortese grape variety, this wine is renowned for its freshness, elegance, and complexity. The grapes are sourced from carefully selected vineyards with optimal exposure to the sun and well-drained soils. After hand-harvesting, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to preserve their delicate aromas and flavors. The resulting wine is straw yellow in color with a bouquet of floral and fruity notes, and a crisp, mineral-driven palate. This wine is an ideal pairing for seafood, white meats, and light pasta dishes.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Salad
Vegetable
Cheese
Fruit
Bruschetta And Crostini
Chicken
Pasta
Fontanafredda Gavi di Gavi
Fontanafredda
Fontanafredda Gavi di Gavi is a premium white wine produced by Fontanafredda, a renowned winery in the Piedmont region of Italy. The wine is made from the Cortese grape variety grown in the Gavi appellation, which is known for its unique terroir and ideal growing conditions. The vineyards are situated on hillsides with a mix of limestone and clay soils, providing the grapes with excellent drainage and mineral-rich nutrients. The winemaking process involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks, resulting in a crisp and refreshing wine with delicate floral and citrus aromas. Fontanafredda Gavi di Gavi is a perfect match for seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes, making it a versatile and elegant choice for any occasion.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Salad
Seafood
Monte del Frá Veneto Custoza
Monte del Frá
Bianco di Custoza is often considered a sibling to Lugana, both originating from the Garda Lake region. They share a similar grape composition, but Bianco di Custoza allows for a maximum of 45% Trebbiano, while Lugana mandates at least 90%. Garganega and Tocai Friulano, among others, complement Trebbiano in Custoza. Monte del Frá, situated in the heart of Custoza, has crafted an exceptional Bianco di Custoza, honored with three glasses by Gambero Rosso. This winery, established in 1958, tends to 140 hectares of vineyards in Garda's acclaimed regions. The latest Custoza blend features Garganega, Trebbiano, and Cortese, offering a refreshing, mineral-laden finesse with floral, peach, apricot, and lime notes.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Seafood
Salad
Bruschetta And Crostini
Shellfish
Shrimp
Tuna And Swordfish
Villa Sparina Blanc de Blancs Brut
Villa Sparina
Villa Sparina Blanc de Blancs Brut is a delightful sparkling wine that showcases the expertise of its producer. Crafted in the renowned Piemonte region, this wine is made from carefully selected grapes grown in the vineyards of Villa Sparina. The vineyard's unique features, such as its favorable climate and limestone-rich soil, contribute to the wine's exceptional quality. The winemaking process involves a meticulous approach, including a secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in fine bubbles and a crisp, refreshing taste. With its elegant style and vibrant character, Villa Sparina Blanc de Blancs Brut is a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated sparkling wine experience.
Read more Food Pairing:
Tuna And Swordfish
Sushi
Seafood