Fancy yourself a princess? This is your wine!
100% Cortese from Novi Ligure, Gavi, Piedmont, Italy.
Sample submitted for review. SRP of $15 and available for as low as $10. Imported by Banfi.
From the bottle:
"In the 6th century, Principessa Gavia fell deeply in love with a soldier. Her father, Clodimir, King of the Franks, forbade their marriage, so the lovers eloped to a remote village in northwestern Italy. Charmed by the local white wine, the newlyweds revealed their identity and were brought before the king. But when he discovered their happiness, he forgave the couple. The King blessed their union and named for her both the village and its wine - Gavi. Dry, fruity, with crisp acidity, Principessa Gavia Gavi is an ideal marriage to seafood, chicken or veal.
12.0% Alcohol"
While we've mentioned Gavi before, today is the first we've reviewed. The Gavi DOCG, located in the famed Piedmont region of Italy, produces wines made from the Cortese grape. As is often the case the name comes from the town around which the grape is grown and is often used synonymously with the actual varietal name, Cortese (sometimes referred to as Cortese di Gavi). This indigenous variety dates back to the 1600s and is considered Piedmont's signature white grape much the same as Nebbiolo is considered the signature red grape of the area.
The 2012 Banfi Principessa Gavia Gavi begins with pleasant aromas of green apple, a little graphite minerality and a nice light floral component. The light-bodied wine tastes fresh, fruity and fun. Green apple, luscious lime and a little pear and grapefruit combine with a great texture and lively acidity to make a crisp and delicious wine. It ends dry, clean and crisp with lasting tart fruit flavors.
See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.