2024 La Zerba Gavi di Tassarolo DOCG, Piedmont

In the rolling hills of Tassarolo in southern Piedmont, La Zerba crafts Gavi that feels both vibrant and quietly sophisticated. The estate, led by the Ravera family, focuses on expressing the purity of Cortese from limestone rich vineyards that benefit from cooling breezes drifting in from the Ligurian coast. Careful vineyard management and restrained winemaking help preserve the grape’s naturally crisp profile while allowing subtle texture and mineral detail to emerge, resulting in a Gavi that is as refreshing as it is characterful.

A pale straw colour with green flashes signals its youthful energy. Aromas lift cleanly from the glass with lemon zest, green apple and white peach layered alongside almond blossom, wet stone and a delicate saline nuance. There is an appealing sense of clarity and brightness. The palate is light to medium bodied and finely etched, citrus and orchard fruit gliding across a gently rounded texture before tightening into a dry, mineral driven finish. Hints of grapefruit pith and fennel add interest, while lively acidity keeps the wine precise and food friendly.

This is the sort of white that feels made for sunlit tables and simple pleasures. Fresh oysters, grilled prawns, seafood pasta or summer salads will all sing alongside its crisp personality. Best enjoyed in its vibrant youth over the next three to four years, though its freshness will hold beautifully. A charming and authentic Gavi that captures the understated elegance of Piedmont’s coastal influenced hills.