Cortese

Cortese is a white grape variety from northern Italy, best known through Gavi or Cortese di Gavi in Piedmont. It produces dry, fresh white wines with citrus fruit, delicate floral notes, herbs and a subtle almond finish.

The variety is rarely loud or opulent. Its appeal lies in clarity, lightness and a cool mineral impression, especially in the hills of south-eastern Piedmont near the Ligurian border.

Michele Chiarlo

Gavi di Gavi Rovereto 2025 0,75l

€ 24,15

€ 32,20/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

Michele Chiarlo

Gavi di Gavi Rovereto 2024 0,75l

€ 24,10

€ 32,13/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

What does Cortese taste like?

Cortese usually tastes of lemon, green apple, pear, white peach, white flowers and herbs. A fine almond or bitter-kernel note is also typical, especially on the finish.

The palate is dry, fresh and generally light to medium-bodied. Good examples are precise rather than aggressive, with enough acidity for seafood and aperitif drinking. Lees ageing may add texture while preserving the grape’s clean profile.

Where does Cortese come from?

Cortese is closely linked to Piedmont in north-west Italy. Its most famous home is Gavi DOCG, where the wines are made from Cortese and have become a classic Italian dry white style.

The grape is also grown elsewhere in Piedmont and nearby areas, but its clearest identity is around Gavi. There, calcareous soils, hillside sites and regional tradition shape its fresh, elegant character.

Which Cortese styles are there?

The most important style is dry, still white wine: pale, citrus-driven, crisp and elegant. Gavi ranges from simple and refreshing to more serious, mineral and age-worthy versions.

Cortese can also be made as sparkling wine, including Spumante and Metodo Classico styles in the Gavi framework. Oak is usually discreet, if used at all, because the grape’s best qualities are freshness and finesse.

What food goes with Cortese?

Cortese pairs beautifully with fish, shellfish, prawns, clams, grilled vegetables, vitello tonnato and light antipasti. Its freshness is especially good with lemon, herbs, olive oil and salty seafood.

It also suits asparagus risotto, pasta with pesto, light poultry dishes and young goat cheese. Avoid very heavy, smoky or intensely spicy food, which can cover its delicate style.

Buy Cortese online

Cortese is a refined choice for anyone seeking elegant Italian white wine with freshness and gastronomic ease. Gavi shows how precise and charming this grape can be.

As an aperitif or with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, Cortese offers clarity, balance and understated style. Discover our Cortese and Gavi wines for fresh Italian drinking.