Gavi & Timorasso (Colli Tortonesi)

In the south-east of Piemonte, two neighbouring regions produce some of Italy’s most distinctive white wines. Gavi has long been celebrated for its elegant, refreshing wines made from Cortese, while nearby Colli Tortonesi has become the home of Timorasso, one of Italy’s most exciting native grape varieties. Together they offer a fascinating contrast between an established classic and one of the country’s great modern wine success stories.

Although only a short distance apart, the two regions have very different histories and characters. Gavi’s vineyards reflect centuries of links with the maritime Republic of Genoa, while the hills around Tortona have witnessed the remarkable revival of Timorasso from near extinction to international acclaim. These pages bring together my articles, producer profiles and tasting reports from both regions, exploring their wines, landscapes and people.

Gavi

Situated on Piemonte’s south-eastern border with Liguria, Gavi is one of Italy’s classic white wine regions. Its vineyards surround the historic hill town of Gavi beneath its imposing fortress, producing wines from 100 per cent Cortese that combine freshness, finesse and an affinity with seafood, reflecting the area’s long Ligurian heritage.

Today Gavi DOCG extends across eleven communes and around 1,600 hectares of vineyards. While much of the production is good commercial wine, the best estates demonstrate that Cortese is capable of producing wines of remarkable elegance, complexity and longevity. Recent developments, including the introduction of officially recognised geographical indications (UGAs), are beginning to highlight the diversity within the denomination.

Colli Tortonesi

Immediately to the northeast of Gavi lies the much larger Colli Tortonesi DOC, a diverse denomination whose rolling hills stretch towards Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna and Liguria. Although Barbera remains the most widely planted variety, the region has become internationally known for the revival of Timorasso, an ancient grape rescued from near extinction and now regarded as one of Italy’s finest white wines.

The area’s complex geology, varied elevations and cooler climate provide ideal conditions for producing structured, age-worthy wines. While Timorasso is the modern star, Colli Tortonesi also produces excellent Barbera, Cortese, Dolcetto and other local varieties, making it one of Piemonte’s most dynamic and diverse wine regions.