The story of the winery is the story of a family that has been protecting and enhancing Barbaresco since 1971 And for anyone with just a passing knowledge of the wines from the area, they will recognise the estate as one of the greatest in the region.
The family winegrowing tradition is now carried on by Giuseppe’s children, Pier Carlo, Tiziana, and son-in-law Gabriele, who look ahead with the determination that has always been the Cortese family’s most distinguishing feature. Attentive, rigorous care of the estate’s vineyards, strict selection, a traditional approach to vinification, and a gentle hand with modern techniques are the ingredients that define the unmistakable personality and unique flavours of Cortese’s wines
The family lives in the hamlet of Rabaja, most famous cru in Barbaresco. This steep, amphitheater is home to some of the greatest Barbaresco ever made and is undoubtedly of "Grand Cru" status. They're the biggest owners with 9 hectares.
'Actually, for most people, it’s the single greatest Barbaresco vineyard of all: to put this statement into better perspective for you, consider that if we were to list together all of Barbaresco’s and Barolo’s vineyards together, Rabajà would still make it in the top five. That’s how good it is. And the Giuseppe Cortese estate happens to be the biggest landowner of Rabajà.' Ian d'Agata
