Located in Rovereto di Gavi, the most prestigious cru of the Gavi DOCG appellation, Picollo Ernesto is one of Piedmont’s benchmark producers of Cortese. Founded in 1945, the family estate has built a reputation for producing elegant, mineral-driven Gavi wines that capture the character of one of Italy’s most celebrated white wine regions.
The Estate
Established by Lorenzo Picollo and now managed by Ernesto Picollo and his son Gian Lorenzo, the estate remains family owned and dedicated to artisanal winemaking. Across three generations, the family has focused exclusively on expressing the potential of the Cortese grape through meticulous vineyard management and careful cellar practices.
Vineyards and Terroir
The estate’s 7 hectares of vineyards are situated in the renowned Rovereto subzone of Gavi. South and southwest-facing slopes maximize sunlight exposure, while cool evening temperatures preserve freshness and aromatic intensity. Calcareous clay and iron-rich limestone soils contribute the distinctive minerality, structure and longevity that define the finest Gavi wines.
Winemaking
Picollo Ernesto follows a sustainable, low-intervention philosophy in both vineyard and cellar. Farming practices avoid herbicides and focus on maintaining healthy soils and biodiversity. Grapes are harvested by hand and fermented in stainless steel using natural yeasts. Ageing also takes place in stainless steel, preserving the purity, freshness and vibrant fruit character of the Cortese grape without the influence of oak.
Wine Style
The wines are defined by freshness, precision and mineral tension. Bright citrus, green apple, white flowers and almond notes are supported by crisp acidity and a distinctive saline finish. The flagship Rovereto bottling showcases additional depth, concentration and complexity while remaining true to the elegance that characterizes great Gavi.
At a Glance
- Region: Gavi DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
- Founded: 1945
- Family: Picollo Family
- Vineyard Area: 7 ha
- Farming: Sustainable, Organic Practices
- Main Variety: Cortese
- Signature Wines: Gavi DOCG, Gavi di Gavi Rovereto DOCG
- Specialty: Single-cru Gavi from Rovereto
Trade Resources
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