Tenuta Santa Seraffa Gavi del Comune di Gavi

The 18ha Santa Seraffa estate is situated in the prized Gavi del Comune di Gavi zone which surrounds the town of Gavi itself (rather than the satellite villages). It now belongs to Araldica, one of Gavi's leading producers, who have the largest vineyard holdings in the region and a 15 year reputation for crafting the highest quality expressions of the indigenous Cortese grape. The Santa Seraffa vineyards are south-facing, on striking pale, chalky clay soils allowing for excellent drainage. The vines are, on average, approximately 45yrs old. The combination of a fantastic site and vineyard age confer complexity and body to the resulting wines. The Cortese grapes here ripen relatively late and achieve modest alcohol levels - integral to create elegant wines. The name of the estate comes from the Hermitage of Santa Seraffa - a destination for pilgrims in the thirteenth century, who were also attracted by the wines produced by the Cistercian monks.

Production at Tenuta Santa Seraffa has obtained the SQNPI trademark - Sistema di Qualità Nazionale di Produzione Integrata (National Quality System of Integrated Crop Management). Wines and vintages that are now fully compatible with this system have a bee symbol on the label, which guarantees that each phase of production has complied with the strict parameters of integrated crop management. In other words, it is sustainable and eco-compatible, certified by an independent third party.

Cortese,

The vines, planted on a mixture of soils - but with a clay base, are nurtured from bud-break to harvest.

The 100% Cortese grapes typically ripen relatively late (end of September / start of October) are hand-harvested, immediately transported to the winery, and then cooled to 5 degrees C. They are careully cool-pressed to avoid oxidation of the juice. Whole bunch pressing is utilised to retain higher acidity levels and a more floral, textured style. After static settling for 48 hours, to separate the lees from the juice, the clean juice is racked for fermentation in stainless steel. The wine then enjoys a period of maturation on fine lees before bottling – for longevity and freshness in bottle.

A Gavi from a single estate which is steeped in history. Since Araldica acquired the estate in 2016 it has become the jewel in the crown of their Gavi production.

A fine and pure expression of Gavi with pretty aromas of flora, citrus and green apple combined with more complex hints of frangipane. The palate has apple and lemon characters, and an appealing weight and minerality. The finish is textural, long and defined.

This wine is a perfect accompaniment to seafood and shellfish - unsurprising for a wine sourced just 35km from the Ligurian coast.