Vineyards
The Le Rive vineyard is situated at 260 metres above sea level, with south-facing exposure that ensures full sun throughout the growing season. The 60-year-old vines are rooted in the clay-rich soils of Rovereto, which retain moisture and provide ideal conditions for the Cortese grape. The Mediterranean breezes from the nearby Ligurian Sea help preserve the grapes’ natural acidity, lending freshness and balance to the wine.
Winemaking
The grapes are hand-harvested from the historic Le Rive vineyard, ensuring only the highest quality fruit is selected for this single-vineyard wine. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the delicate aromatics and freshness of the Cortese grape. No oak ageing is used, allowing the wine’s minerality and vibrant fruit to shine. The 2023 vintage has an alcohol content of 12.5%.
Appearance
Pale straw yellow with bright greenish reflections.
Nose
The nose is elegant and refined, offering aromas of citrus, green apple, and white flowers, complemented by subtle notes of almond and wet stone.
Palate
On the palate, Gavi Le Rive is crisp and precise, with flavours of lemon zest, green apple, and pear, balanced by vibrant acidity. The wine’s pronounced minerality adds depth, leading to a long, refreshing finish with a touch of salinity.
Food pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with seafood, particularly shellfish, as well as delicate pasta dishes, risottos, and fresh salads. It also complements soft cheeses and serves as an ideal apéritif.
Accolades
- 93 points from Gambero Rosso
Background story
Picollo Ernesto is a hidden gem in the renowned Gavi region of Piedmont, standing apart from the mass-scale, commercial production that dominates much of the area. Nestled among the rolling hills surrounding the town of Gavi, the estate benefits from a Mediterranean-like climate, with constant maritime breezes unique to southern Piedmont. Situated at 260 metres above sea level in the prestigious Rovereto di Gavi area, the vineyards span 16 hectares and are exclusively planted with the Cortese grape. This varietal thrives in the region’s challenging, sun-soaked, clay-rich soils, which conserve water even in the driest summer months, contributing to the exceptional quality of the grapes.
Founded in 1945 by Lorenzo Picollo, the winery’s management passed to his son Ernesto, and today, Gianlorenzo Picollo continues the family’s winemaking legacy with great success. Picollo Ernesto is renowned for its focus on producing clean, elegant, and refined Gavi wines that are a true reflection of the local terroir. The estate is particularly known for its historic Le Rive vineyard, where vines are over 60 years old, and its more recent acquisitions in Tassarolo. With a commitment to sustainable practices, all grapes are hand-harvested, and no artificial pesticides or herbicides are used. The winery has embraced modernisation, but remains true to its traditional processes, fermenting and ageing its Cortese wines exclusively in stainless steel to preserve the pure expression of the grape and terroir. Ernesto Picollo’s wines are marked by their gentle aromatics and distinct minerality, offering an authentic representation of Gavi’s potential.
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