Palm & Vine
  • Home
  • Free Resources
  • About Me
  • Press & Portfolio
  • Services
  • Contact Me
  • Wine
    • Tastings & Events
    • Wineries
    • World of Wine
  • Rare Varieties
  • Food & Wine
  • Musings

Copyright © 2023 Palm & Vine.
All Rights Reserved.
 

Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
Cookie Policy
Disclaimer

Social Links

Free Resources
Contact
Palm & Vine
Palm & Vine Palm & Vine
  • Wine
    • Wine Tastings & Events
    • World of Wine
    • Wineries
  • Rare Varieties
  • Food & Wine
  • About
    • My Wine Lifestyle
    • Contact Me
  • Press & Portfolio
  • Services
    • Find Your Marketing Flavor Profile
    • Free Resources
  • WineComm 365
Cortese Mauro Sebaste Gavi DOCG 2018
  • Rare Varieties

Cortese – The Great White of Piemonte

  • 5 minute read
Total
14
Shares
1
0
13

We have all heard of the legendary Italian reds hailing from Piemonte in northwestern Italy just over the Alps from France. Barolo and Barbaresco. We know them. We adore them. But what about the great whites of Piemonte?

This week’s rare varieties journey takes us to the southern end of Piemonte bordering the coastal region of Liguria. You will find the great white wine of the region here in the town of Gavi. So great, in fact, that this white wine has elicited its own DOCG. According to Karen McNeil, “During the 1960s and 1970s, many wine experts considered it the best dry white wine in all Italy.” The famed Gavi DOCG produces exquisite, harmonious white wines from an autochthonous Piemontese variety called Cortese.

Gavi DOCG

The Gavi DOCG designation encompasses eleven zones in the Province of Alessandria. These zones include Bosio, Capriata d’Orba, Carrosio, Francavilla Bisio, Gavi, Novi Ligure, Parodi Ligure, Pasturana, San Cristoforo, Serravalle Scrivia, and Tassarolo.

In order to bear the Gavi DOCG designation, the wine must be produced with 100% Cortese. Evidence suggests that Cortese was planted as far back as the 16th century. In 1965, correspondence between the castle of Montaldeo and the marquis Doria recorded the first mention of “pure cortese vines.” Moreover, the region of Gavi has ancient origins in wine growing. A preserved document in the State Archives of Genoa dated June 3, 1972 indicates that the Bishop of Genoa paid two citizens in Gavi to rent vineyards in Mariana. In reference to this piece of history, Gavi dal 972 is the name of the Consorzio Tutela del Gavi. Check out their website for more incredible information on the history of Cortese in Gavi.

You may find wines from this geographic indication labeled as Gavi DOCG, Gavi di Gavi DOCG, or Cortese di Gavi DOCG. The DOCG includes tranquillo (still), frizzante (lightly sparkling), spumante (sparkling), riserva (reserve), and Riserva Spumante metodo classic (sparkling reserve classic method) wines. Here is the breakdown the DOCG requirements by designation.

Tranquillo

  • Maximum yield per hectare: 9.5 tons
    • Maximum 8.5 tons for the “vigna” (“vineyard’) designation
  • Minimum 9.5% ABV
    • Minimum 10.5% ABV for “vigna” designation

Frizzante

  • Maximum yield per hectare: 9.5 tons
    • Maximum 8.5 tons for the “vigna” (“vineyard’) designation
  • Minimum 9.5% ABV
    • Minimum 10.5% ABV for “vigna” designation

Spumante

  • Maximum yield per hectare: 9.5 tons
    • Maximum 8.5 tons for the “vigna” (“vineyard’) designation
  • Minimum 9% ABV
    • Minimum 10.5% ABV for “vigna” designation

Riserva

  • Maximum yield per hectare: 6.5 tons
  • Minimum 11% ABV
  • 1 year of aging, of which 6 months must be in bottle

Riserva Spumante Metodo Classico

  • Maximum yield per hectare: 6.5 tons
  • Minimum 11% ABV
  • 2 years of aging, of which 18 months must be in bottle with the yeasts

The maximum yields per hectare are increasingly reduced from the third year of planting on. You can dive into the specifics here. The maximum yield in finished wine shall not be higher than 70%. Additionally, The batches of grapes intended for the Riserva type must be separately registered and declared. Where the wine is subject to sparkling production, it is possible to reclassify from “Gavi” Riserva to “Gavi” Spumante Riserva after the initial declaration.

Winemaking and bottling operations must be completed within the defined DOCG production area. Concentrated grape musts can only be used to increase alcoholic levels of the DOCG wines. They must come from within the defined geographic area. Gavi dal 972 has done an absolutely fantastic job of providing detailed information for the Gavi DOCG. So, head to their website for further details.  

The Variety: Cortese

“It has rather long bunches, rather big berries,and when it matures, it becomes yellow and is good to eat, it makes good wine, is abundant and it keeps.” – Count Nuvolone, Deputy Director of the Agrarian Society of Turin 1978

Mainly grown in the predominantly hilly zone of Gavi, Cortese is the great white variety of Piemonte. Seventy five different biotypes of Cortese have been identified. In similar fashion to Nebbiolo, the region’s famed red variety, Cortese is also a vigorous and highly productive vine. High acidity and lean body are common characteristics of this variety. Cortese is often distinguished by its zesty, crisp palate with citrus, floral, melon, and mineral aromatics.

In the early 1980s, like so many other wines, Cortese was over-yielded and produced unexciting wines. Thankfully, producers returned to an emphasis on quality over quantity and the results were phenomenal. The high acidity of Cortese helps retain freshness in the wine. In order to add texture and balance the acidity, some producers will opt for partial malolactic fermentation. This technique can add interesting complexity when done well.

Climate & Vineyards of Gavi

Though there are a few examples of Cortese in the Veneto, Lombardy, and even California, for the most part this variety is uniquely grown in Piemonte. Cortese can easily produce wines that are overly acidic, bland, and out of balance. To be successful, this variety requires the specific growing conditions found in its birthplace of Gavi. Just as Nebbiolo thrives in Barolo and Barbaresco.

The Gavi appellation sits in the southern end of Piedmont on the border of the coastal region of Liguria. Gavi is uniquely positioned to receive both the cooling influences from the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps mountain ranges. The drastic temperature swing from day to night leading up to harvest helps to preserve acidity and intensify aromatics. The microclimate of the appellation is characterized by abundant rainfall from October to April (619mm) and hot, dry summers. During September, temperatures are mild with exceptionally sunny days helping to bring the fruit to full maturity for harvest.

The Guyot vine training system is often used in Gavi with an average of 3,300 to 5,000 vines planted per hectare. On average, vine rows are planted 2.4 to 2.6 meters apart with 0.9 to 1.2 meters between vines in order to facilitate cultivation and canopy management.

The Winery: Mauro Sebaste

Mauro Sebaste is a family owned and operated winery located in Alba. The winery’s namesake started the company encouraged by his strong passion for wine. Today, Mauro Sebaste produces wine from 30 hectares of owned and rented vineyards. Mauro mainly focuses on producing wines of uncompromising quality and in such is constantly seeking the best vineyard sites. The winery currently works with Alba, Serralunga, Barolo, La Morra, Verduno, Vinchio, Diano d’Alba, Montelupo, Mango, Piobesi d’Alba and Vezza d’Alba. For more on Mauro Sebaste and their extensive portfolio of wines, visit their website here.

The Wine: Mauro Sebaste, Gavi DOCG 2018

Cortese, Mauro Sebaste Gavi DOCG 2018

Vineyards with a high percentage of calcareous soils in the Novi area of the DOCG produced this Cortese. Manual harvest occurred in mid-September. The wine was fermented at low temperatures in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. As required by the DOCG regulations, vinification was carried out in the zone of origin so that the fruit could be pressed immediately following harvest. The wine remained in stainless steel tanks for 2-3 months until bottling in February.

tasting Notes

  • Medium straw yellow with green reflections
  • Medium pronounced aromas of white florals – honeysuckle, sea breeze, seashells, chalk, Gala apples, Meyer lemon, ripe honeydew melon
  • Dry, crisp & refreshing yet elegantly textured
  • Medium body, medium-plus acidity
  • More salinity and minerals on the palate with a hint of citrus and honeydew melon delicately lingering with the persistent finish
  • A harmonious wine, well-balanced and integrated. Outstanding quality.

Pairing Suggestions

This wine would allow most seafood dishes to sing, but especially those with lots of fresh lemon, butter, and herbs. Pan seared scallops in a sauce of butter, lemon, and parsley. Grilled fish tacos doused in a cilantro-based chimichurri and spritzed with a squeeze of lime. Or perhaps a fresh bruschetta on crostini served alongside a creamy ricotta. A simple lemon ricotta pasta or the classic aglio olio.

Share 1
Tweet 0
Pin it 13

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Total
14
Shares
Share 1
Tweet 0
Pin it 13
Related Topics
  • International Wine
  • Italian Wine
  • White Wine
  • Wine Tasting
Previous Article
2017 Donnachiara Resilienza Falanghina Beneventano IGT
  • Rare Varieties

Falanghina – A Historic White Variety from Campania

View Post
Next Article
Bud Break in Burgundy
  • Wine
  • World of Wine

Bud Break, Flowering & Fruit Set – Nature’s Gift to Wine Lovers

View Post

You May Also Like

Freisa, italian wine, red wine, piedmont, piemonte italy
View Post
  • 4 min
  • Rare Varieties

Freisa – A Rare Italian Red Related to Nebbiolo

Roero, Arneis, Piedmont Italy, Italian wine, wine region
View Post
  • 4 min
  • Rare Varieties

Arneis: Piedmont’s Great White Italian Wine

Verduno Pelaverga, Piedmont, Cuneo
View Post
  • 3 min
  • Rare Varieties

Pelaverga a.k.a. One of Piedmont’s Most Delicious Rare Varieties

Timorasso, Derthona, Walter Massa
View Post
  • 5 min
  • Rare Varieties

Timorasso – From Nearly Extinct to Cult Classic

slarina, Italian red wine, Monferrato
View Post
  • 3 min
  • Rare Varieties

Slarina: Almost Extinct Age Worthy Red Wines in Monferrato

Grignolino from Monferrato
View Post
  • 5 min
  • Rare Varieties

Grignolino – A Rebellious Yet Noble Red Variety in Monferrato

Nascetta, Piedmont, white wine
View Post
  • 4 min
  • Rare Varieties

Nascetta – A Rare Variety Making Memorable Wines in Piemonte

Ferraris Ruché
View Post
  • 6 min
  • Rare Varieties
  • Wineries

Discover Ruché with Ferraris Agricola

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Discover Your Digital Marketing Flavor Profile

Winery digital marketing, wine social media marketing, winery brand messaging
about

About

Hi, I’m Nikki. Welcome to Palm & Vine – a wine blog for the adventurous at heart. Allow me to guide you into the world of wine, help you create unforgettable wine pairings, and inspire your wine travels to far off destinations. I can’t wait to savor, sip, and wander together.
Read More

Let’s Connect!

Free resources
Subscribe & Get Access To My Exclusive Digital Wine Resource Library!
Marketing by
ActiveCampaign

Rare Varieties

  • Freisa, italian wine, red wine, piedmont, piemonte italy
    • Rare Varieties

    Freisa – A Rare Italian Red Related to Nebbiolo

      • Rare Varieties
    View Post
  • Roero, Arneis, Piedmont Italy, Italian wine, wine region
    • Rare Varieties

    Arneis: Piedmont’s Great White Italian Wine

      • Rare Varieties
    View Post
  • Verduno Pelaverga, Piedmont, Cuneo
    • Rare Varieties

    Pelaverga a.k.a. One of Piedmont’s Most Delicious Rare Varieties

      • Rare Varieties
    View Post
  • Timorasso, Derthona, Walter Massa
    • Rare Varieties

    Timorasso – From Nearly Extinct to Cult Classic

      • Rare Varieties
    View Post
  • slarina, Italian red wine, Monferrato
    • Rare Varieties

    Slarina: Almost Extinct Age Worthy Red Wines in Monferrato

      • Rare Varieties
    View Post

Watch Wine Masters TV

wine masters TV, wine documentary, learn about wine, wine movies, gaja, mastroberardino, antinori, italian wine, french wine, spanish wine

Instagram

If you’re a wine brand or business struggling with digital marketing and breaking through the noise on social media, I get it.
If you’re slinging wine, then you need to know how to write about it! Nothing groundbreaking, but at the very least you should be able to write enticing tasting notes...
📣📣 Calling all wine brands, wineries, wine shops, and wine businesses! I'm excited to share something I've been cooking up for you...
✨ Save this post for a must-try restaurant for the next time you find yourself in 📍Nuoro, Sardegna…
Are you ready to visit one of the world's most renowned wine regions with me?
Feels like it’s time for a little reintroduction 😊
Follow

Posts You’ll Love

  • aromas in wine, wine tasting, red wine aromas, primary aromas
    Aromas in Wine: 25 of the Most Common Wine Aromas Explained
  • Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
    Exclusive Look Inside Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
  • Bud Break in Burgundy
    Bud Break, Flowering & Fruit Set – Nature’s Gift to Wine Lovers
  • Cannonau
    Sardinian Cannonau is a Global Contender
  • Vernaccia di Oristano
    Vernaccia di Oristano – Sardinia’s Most Fascinating Wine
Palm & Vine Wine Blog

Copyright © 2023 Palm & Vine.
All Rights Reserved.
 

Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
Cookie Policy
Disclaimer

Featured Categories

Crostini Appetizer
Food & Wine
53 Posts
View Posts
Yarra Valley Wine Region
Musings
21 Posts
View Posts
Veraison Grapes
Rare Varieties
51 Posts
View Posts
Palm & Vine
Tastings & Events
19 Posts
View Posts
winemaking, wine country, wine region, vineyards
Wine
23 Posts
View Posts
Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
Wineries
35 Posts
View Posts
Vigne Surrau Barrel Room
World of Wine
38 Posts
View Posts
If you’re a wine brand or business struggling with digital marketing and breaking through the noise on social media, I get it.
If you’re slinging wine, then you need to know how to write about it! Nothing groundbreaking, but at the very least you should be able to write enticing tasting notes...
📣📣 Calling all wine brands, wineries, wine shops, and wine businesses! I'm excited to share something I've been cooking up for you...
✨ Save this post for a must-try restaurant for the next time you find yourself in 📍Nuoro, Sardegna…
Are you ready to visit one of the world's most renowned wine regions with me?
Feels like it’s time for a little reintroduction 😊
Subscribe & Get Access To My Exclusive Digital Wine Resource Library!
Marketing by
ActiveCampaign

Copyright © 2023 Palm & Vine.
All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
Cookie Policy
Disclaimer

Free resources

Pinterest Profile

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

This website uses cookies to function and to track how you interact with the website. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Read More Cookie settings Accept
Cookie Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser, as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Advertisement

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.

Analytics

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

Performance

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

 

Loading Comments...