2023 Fontanassa - Gavi di Gavi DOCG (750ml)

Nestled in the rolling, sun-drenched hills of southeast Piedmont, Fontanassa is a benchmark historic estate that captures the absolute summit of northern Italian white winemaking. Managed with meticulous care by the Marco and Roberto Gemme brothers, the estate dates its agricultural roots back to the late 19th century. Fontanassa is globally celebrated for its unyielding commitment to the Cortese grape, proving that when treated with artisanal respect, this native variety yields a white wine of breathtaking structural precision and aristocratic longevity.

While basic Gavi can be sourced from anywhere across a wide provincial zone, this wine proudly bears the prestigious Gavi di Gavi DOCG status. This indicates that the fruit is grown exclusively within the strict, historic borders of the commune of Gavi itself—specifically from Fontanassa's prized Rovereto district, universally considered the "Grand Cru" zone of the appellation.

Grown in well-drained, mineral-heavy soils composed of red clay and gravelly sand, the estate's sustainably farmed old vines benefit from a highly unique microclimate where chilly alpine currents collide with warm maritime breezes sweeping off the nearby Ligurian Sea. Fermented and aged entirely in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats on its fine yeast lees, the 2024 release entirely side-steps oak. Instead, it relies on strict terroir to offer a chiseled framework of intense citrus fruit and crushed-stone minerality.

Tasting Profile

• Aroma: Highly crystalline, elegant, and beautifully focused. The wine pours a pristine, pale straw-yellow color with shimmering emerald-gold highlights. The nose opens with an upscale, expressive bouquet of fresh green apples, white peach flesh, and crunchy Bosc pears, seamlessly integrated with sophisticated varietal top notes of wild chamomile, lime blossoms, green almonds, and a distinct, smoky trace of damp flint rock.

• Palate: Medium-bodied, intensely vibrant, and wonderfully texturized. On the first sip, it strikes the tongue with a concentrated, linear stream of tart lemon curd, pink grapefruit zest, and fresh white nectarine. Thanks to the old-vine density and extended lees contact, the mid-palate possesses a lovely, subtle waxy weight and a silky fluid architecture that prevents the wine from ever tasting thin or sharp.

• Finish: Exceptionally long, bone-dry, and mouthwatering. The bright orchard fruit notes gently yield to a persistent, laser-focused finish defined by a lip-smacking trail of mineral salinity, a touch of almond-pith bitterness, and a final, lingering wave of citrus peel freshness.

Wine Specifications

Serving Tip: To fully appreciate the mineral complexity and texturized mid-palate of this Gavi di Gavi, avoid serving it freezing cold straight out of a commercial ice chest. Aim for an ideal cellar temperature of 48–52°F. Pour directly into a standard tapered white wine glass or a traditional Burgundy glass to allow the subtle chamomile and almond aromatics to completely uncoil.

Best Food Pairings

Thanks to its soaring natural acidity, distinct salinity, and clean mineral architecture, this Gavi acts as a world-class culinary partner, cutting through rich fats, olive oil reductions, and fresh seafood flawlessly:

• The Piedmontese Match: Traditional Tajarin pasta tossed with fresh butter and shaved white truffles, or a rich pea and vegetable risotto.

• From the Sea: Branzino baked in salt crust, grilled octopus drizzled with lemon and cold-pressed olive oil, freshly shucked raw oysters, or spaghetti alle vongole.

• Bistro Classics: Lemon-herb roasted chicken breast, pan-seared trout with almonds, or a light goat cheese and asparagus tart.

• Cheese Course: Exceptional when paired with fresh Italian cheeses like Mozzarella di Bufala, Burrata, young Fontina, or tangy goat milk chèvre.