Cortese is a white wine grape variety that has been historically grown in the southeastern region of Piedmont, Italy. This ancient grape, also known as Cortese di Gavi, is the secret charm behind the high-quality and highly-refreshing Italian wines renowned for their lovely crispness, impressive acidity and engaging body. The exact origin of the grape is unclear, yet it dates back to the 17th century according to several written sources, securing its esteemed place in viticultural history.
Blessed with the unique characteristic of maintaining its acidity even in warmer climates, the Cortese grape thrives in high-altitude regions, particularly in the Alessandria PDO area, where it is made into the famed Gavi wine. The grape delivers a well-balanced flavour profile of citrusy lemon zest, hints of pear and green apple, combined with mineral and almond nuances, which leads to an invigorating, palate-cleansing finish.
The bunches of Cortese grapes have a pyramid shape and medium-sized, yellowish-green grapes. The yield is quite generous, though maintaining the vine can be a bit of a challenge due to its susceptibility to fungal diseases and pest attacks.
In terms of wine production, Cortese grapes are often used for making light to medium-bodied wines, primarily as still whites. However, it is also used to produce sparkling and sweet passito wines. Cortese-based wines tend to be highly aromatic, releasing hints of white flowers, citrus, and honey notes. Their high acidity lends itself well to ageing, able to withstand years in the cellar, eventually resulting in richer, complex flavours.
In recent years, the Cortese grape has begun to establish a presence in other parts of the world, such as Australia and California, perhaps indicating a renewed global interest in this time-honoured varietal. Overall, wines produced from the Cortese grape entice with their delightful freshness, emphatic acidity and wonderfully refined flavours, making them an absolute joy for white wine lovers.
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