The Protected Designation of Origin "Cortese dell'Alto Monferrato", identifies the white wine of the same name, which is also produced in the Spumante and sparkling variants.
Grapes
The "Cortese of Alto Monferrato" wine are produced using grapes from the Cortese vine, with which other non-aromatic white grapes, suitable for cultivation in Piedmont, may be used, provided that their share does not exceed 15%.
Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties
The "Cortese dell'Alto Monferrato", also in the Sparkling version, has a light straw yellow colour, which in some cases tends to greenish. In the Sparkling is accompanied by a lively and evanescent foam. The taste is dry, harmonious, savoury and pleasantly bitter, while the aroma is characteristic, delicate, very soft but persistent. In the Spumante version, similar organoleptic characteristics are found, with the addition of a fine and persistent foam and a taste that ranges from brut nature to brut. In all types the minimum total alcoholic strength by volume is 10% vol.
Grape production area
The production area of Alto Monferrato comprises an area characterised by hilly terrain not exceeding 400 metres above sea level and a warm temperate climate.
Specificity and historical notes
The Cortese wine is the most widespread grape variety in Piedmont, among the non-aromatic white grapes, and is a flagship of the local wine production. It is mainly cultivated in the area of Asti, on the right bank of the Tanaro, and in the province of Alessandria.
Source:
MIPAAF - Ministry of agricultural, food and forestry policies
