CORTESE
An Italian grape revered in the northern parts of the country, but seldom seen elsewhere. The best examples come from the DOCG of Gavi, in the region of Piemonte. Cortese di Gavis are light, crisp and have pleasant aromas of almonds, citrus fruits and freshly mown grass. It is also grown in the hills around Monferrato as well as in Lombardy where it is a part of the blend Oltrepo Pavese.
This grape variety is cultivated mainly in the provinces of Asti and Alessandria (the Gavi and Tortona zones). It is also grown in other areas beyond the regional boundaries, such as Oltrepò Pavese and Veneto.
Blessedly high in acidity, even in hot vintages, and able to range from lean and citrusy to quite ripe with notes of honey and yellow fruit. Some wine writers snobbishly call Cortese bland, but the best wines are anything but. Some producers age it in new oak, but this is not generally the best idea.
Grape Variety
Cortese
Use in Old World
Piedmont in Italy.
Use in New World
None.
Color
Clear.
Aroma
Almost none.
Body
Light and crisp.
Wine Making Flavors
Picked and vinified to be very crisp and acidic.
Blended with
Never.
Other
This grape is only included because it is responsible for the Gavi wines of Italy. Gavi dei Gavi being considered by many to be the finest example, it is unquestionably Italy's most expensive white wine.
Categories:
White Wine Grapes