What is Gavi Wine?

While the Piedmont region in northeastern Italy tends to get the most attention for its fantastic red wines, it also produces gorgeous white wines. One of these is Gavi wine, one of the first Italian white wines to gain an international reputation. It’s more formally known as Cortese di Gavi because it is made exclusively from the Cortese grape. Gavi is the region, which is in the Province of Alessandria. Gavi wines are crisp, refreshing, and so bone dry that they’ll leave your mouth tingling.

History of Gavi Wine

The Cortese grape has been part of Italian viticulture for centuries and is considered one of Piedmont’s finest white wine grapes.  Documentation from local vineyards shows evidence of its plantings dating back to 1659. Its current mode of production dates back to 1876 and reflects its terroir wonderfully.

These wines have had DOC status since 1974 and DOCG since 1998. The label “Gavi di Gavi” means the wine comes from the township of Gavi, which is central to the production area. Overall, the DOCG has a stricter production zone, including neighboring towns of Bosio, Capriata d’Orba, Carrosio, Francavilla Bisio, Gavi, Novi Ligure, Parodi Ligure, Pasturana, San Cristoforo, Serravalle Scrivia, and Tassarolo.

Nature of Gavi Wines

The grape has thin skins and naturally high acidity, nicely balanced by the warm, sunny climate where they’re grown. The wines are nutty, floral, and often have lemony citrus, green apples, honeydew, and straw. Some also finish with a hint of almond.

Serving of Gavi Wine

Like many inexpensive white wines, these are usually consumed while young and fresh. Still, cellaring for up to three years can potentially enhance a Gavi wine. Always serve them chilled (6ºC/43ºF) in a white wine glass to fully appreciate their characteristics.  

Food-Pairing

The acidity of Gavi wines makes them wonderfully food-friendly. They’re traditionally served with starters and vegetable dishes but also pair well with many kinds of cheeses if you prefer to open with such a course. We especially recommend them with Italian cheeses like Brunet, Taleggio, Stracchino, Robiola di Roccaverano, and Capra Sarda.  

The tart, fresh citrus notes make Gavi wines ideal with white fish and other seafood dishes. This winemaking region is also close to the coastal area of Liguria where pesto originated. As you might guess, it pairs wonderfully with pestos and other herb-forward pasta sauces.

However, my favorite way to enjoy Gavi wine is with a bowl of olives.  

A Few Suggestions

Are you looking to try Gavi wine for the first time?  Here are a few to look out for. They’re relatively inexpensive, usually under $20 per bottle, so don’t be afraid to pick up a few and compare them.

1. Pio Cesare Gavi di Gavi DOCG

Pio Cesare makes a fresh, clean, and salty Gavi with a delightful fruity quality.  It’s complex enough that it has good potential for aging. Averaging about $20 per bottle, it’s a great value.

2. Villa Sparina Gavi del Comune di Gavi DOCG

Villa Sparina is a gorgeous vineyard in Monterotondo that produces another delicious, affordable Gavi.  On top of that, they’re a resort, so they would make the perfect destination for a honeymoon or wine vacation in Piedmont.  

3. Broglia La Meirana, Gavi del Comune di Gavi DOCG

Broglia boasts some of the oldest vineyards in all of Gavi, though that doesn’t mean they’re stuck in the past. Their vineyard collaborates with Italian universities, working toward winemaking innovations.  

4. La Scolca Gavi dei Gavi DOCG

La Scolca has garnered many awards for its Gavi wines over the years. Be sure to try their black label, which offers additional richness and complexity.  

We are sure you will surely try Gavi, a lovely light wine indeed. Also enjoy serving it at home or at your next dinner party and delight your family and guests!