Grape · White
Cortese
Moderate climate
About
White grape of Piemonte, best known as Gavi (or Cortese di Gavi). Light and crisp with delicate floral aromatics; best drunk young.
Typical profile
Body
Light
Acidity
Bright
Sweetness
Dry
Aromas
What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.
Young · fresh from the glass
Oak influence
None
Growing regions
How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.
Food pairings
crudo di ricciola with lemon and olive oilrisotto ai porcini with Parmigiano-Reggianopan-seared branzino with herbs and white winevitello tonnatoburrata with grilled peach and prosciuttolinguine alle vongole
Similar grapes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Cortese taste like?▼
Cortese is light and crisp with delicate floral aromatics, featuring fresh flavors of apple, pear, and lemon with lovely blossom notes. It's a refreshing white wine that's best enjoyed young to capture its vibrant fruit character.
Where does Cortese grow best?▼
Cortese thrives in Piemonte, Italy, particularly in the Gavi region where it produces the renowned Gavi (or Cortese di Gavi) wines. The grape performs best in moderate climates that preserve its delicate aromatics and crisp acidity.
What food pairs with Cortese?▼
Cortese's light, crisp profile makes it excellent with seafood, shellfish, and light pasta dishes. Its delicate floral character also pairs beautifully with fresh cheeses, salads, and herb-driven preparations.
How does Cortese age?▼
Cortese is best drunk young to enjoy its fresh fruit and floral character. With age, it develops honey and almond notes, though it loses some of its signature crispness and delicate aromatics.
Is Cortese similar to other similar grapes?▼
Cortese shares similarities with other light, crisp Italian whites like Vermentino and Arneis in terms of its fresh, floral profile. It's also comparable to Muscadet or Albariño for its mineral-driven, seafood-friendly character.