Gavi

Gavi: elegance and freshness from Piedmont

Gavi is one of Piedmont’s most representative white wines, produced from Cortese grapes within the Gavi DOCG appellation. Fresh, elegant and often characterised by appealing mineral and savoury notes, it reveals a very different side of Piedmont from the region’s famous red wines.

In this category you will find a selection of Gavi wines from different producers and vineyards, ranging from young, fragrant and approachable expressions to more structured and complex wines capable of developing beautifully with age.

Thanks to its freshness and versatility at the table, Gavi is particularly well suited to fish, shellfish and delicate dishes, while more ambitious expressions can offer enough structure and depth for more complex food pairings.

Characteristics of Gavi

Gavi is made from Cortese grapes, a white variety with naturally good acidity that can produce balanced, fresh and age-worthy wines. Its aromatic profile can include citrus fruit, apple, pear, white flowers and herbs, often accompanied by mineral nuances.

On the palate, Gavi is typically defined by freshness, savoury character and precision, with structure varying considerably according to vineyard, vintage and the winemaking techniques adopted by the producer.

Younger expressions emphasise fragrance and immediate drinkability, while Gavi from particularly suitable vineyards or subjected to longer ageing can develop greater depth, complexity and ageing potential.

The Gavi wine region

The Gavi DOCG production area is located in south-eastern Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria, close to the border with Liguria. Its hilly landscape and distinctive soils play an important role in shaping the identity of the wines.

The interaction between continental influences and air currents from the nearby Ligurian Sea creates distinctive conditions for growing Cortese, contributing to wines known for freshness, balance and excellent versatility with food.

Within the appellation, differences in soil, altitude and vineyard exposure allow producers to create Gavi wines with varying characteristics and individual personalities.

Gavi, Cortese and the DOCG appellation

The relationship between Gavi and Cortese is fundamental, as this historic grape variety forms the basis of the appellation. Its natural acidity allows producers to make fresh wines for early drinking as well as bottles capable of developing greater complexity with age.

The appellation includes different styles, allowing producers to showcase both the immediate character of Cortese and more structured, age-worthy interpretations. The Gavi del Comune di Gavi designation can be used for wines originating from the specific area established by the appellation regulations.

Food pairings with Gavi

Its freshness and savoury character make Gavi particularly well suited to seafood. It pairs beautifully with shellfish, raw fish, sushi, seafood pasta and delicate fish dishes, and can also be enjoyed as an aperitif.

More structured expressions can accompany risotto, white meats, vegetables, fresh cheeses and more elaborate dishes while maintaining an appealing balance between the intensity of the food and the freshness of the wine.

Il Quadrifoglio Wine selection

Our selection includes Gavi wines from different producers and vintages, with bottles chosen to represent the various interpretations of Cortese and the terroir of the appellation.

Our aim is to offer a choice suitable both for those looking for a fresh and elegant Piedmont white wine and for enthusiasts interested in discovering more complex and terroir-driven expressions of Gavi.

Frequently asked questions about Gavi

What kind of wine is Gavi?

Gavi is a Piedmont white wine made from Cortese grapes. It is generally characterised by freshness, good acidity, a savoury character and delicate aromas of fruit, citrus and flowers.

Which grape is used to make Gavi?

Gavi DOCG is made from Cortese, a white grape variety historically grown in the area and particularly well suited to the local climate and soils.

Where is Gavi produced?

Gavi is produced in south-eastern Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria, within the municipalities included in the Gavi DOCG appellation.

What food pairs well with Gavi?

Gavi pairs particularly well with fish, shellfish, seafood, sushi and seafood pasta. More structured examples can also accompany risotto, white meats and fresh cheeses.