A WHITE GRAPE
Cortese
What Cortese tastes like
Cortese is a white grape that appears in 7 of the appellations in our table. Where it is grown at its best known, the style is described this way: complex, elegant sparkling with brioche notes, fine mousse, and dry palate.
Where Cortese grows
Our appellations table names Cortese in 7 wine regions. The ones with the most wines in our database are Alta Langa (Italy), Colli Tortonesi (Italy), Gavi (Italy), Gavi di Gavi (Italy), Lombardia (Italy), Monferrato (Italy) and Derthona (Italy).
How the place changes the glass
- Alta Langa (Italy): Complex, elegant sparkling with brioche notes, fine mousse, and dry palate. Climate: cool temperate.
- Colli Tortonesi (Italy): Approachable reds with good acidity and fruit; light, crisp sparkling whites. Climate: temperate continental, moderate.
- Gavi (Italy): Crisp, light, dry white with delicate fruit and mineral notes; fresh and food-friendly. Climate: warm continental.
- Gavi di Gavi (Italy): Crisp, mineral-driven white with delicate floral notes and refined acidity. Climate: cool temperate, maritime influence from Mediterranean.
What to eat with Cortese
- In Alta Langa: Oysters, seafood risotto, white fish, light pasta, apéritif.
- In Colli Tortonesi: Pasta carbonara, grilled vegetables, cured meats, light seafood.
- In Gavi: Shellfish, seafood risotto, light pasta, goat cheese, vegetables.
Cortese in our cellar
The appellations above account for about 279 Cortese wines in the Sommurai database, which is how we know which regions pour it most.
Grapes to try next
If you like Cortese, these white grapes are worth a glass: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc and Albarino.
Quick answers
Where is Cortese grown?
Our appellations table names Cortese in 7 wine regions, including Alta Langa (Italy), Colli Tortonesi (Italy), Gavi (Italy), Gavi di Gavi (Italy) and Lombardia (Italy).
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