Cortese dell'Alto Monferrato

About the wine

Cortese dell'Alto Monferrato is a white wine denomination centered on the Cortese grape, cultivated in the hilly landscapes of the provinces of Asti and Alessandria in Piedmont. Historically documented in the region since the 17th century, the wine is characterized by its pale straw color, delicate and persistent aromas, and a dry, sapid palate with a signature pleasant bitterness. The DOC encompasses still, frizzante, and spumante typologies, all reflecting the terroir of clay-calcareous and marly soils. It is a quintessential expression of the Alto Monferrato, offering a fresh, light, and harmonious profile that distinguishes it from the more structured expressions of neighboring areas. The production rules emphasize traditional hillside viticulture, excluding valley floors to ensure quality, and mandate a minimum alcohol content of 10.0% for all versions. It remains a cornerstone of Piedmontese white wine production, valued for its consistency and authentic regional character.

Grape varieties

Production & aging

The production area covers numerous communes across the provinces of Asti and Alessandria in the Piedmont region. Key areas include the hilly territories around Acqui Terme, Ovada, and the southern Asti region, specifically excluding valley floors and high-altitude pre-Apennine/Apennine reliefs. The zone is defined by specific administrative boundaries spanning from the Tanaro river area in Asti to the border with the province of Savona in Alessandria.