Oriental carpet traders Luigi and Paola Lorenzi bought a holiday house in the commune of Gavi and it is easy to understand why. La Zerba is the highest estate in the area with incredible panoramic views surrounded by vineyards. They have since given up the day job and converted the garage into a winery to produce excellent Gavi from 30 year Cortese vines planted on iron-rich soils. The wine is aromatic and refreshing yet rich in personality. The Lorenzis are exceptionally generous hosts and Paola is the most fantastic chef. I can confirm their Gavi Terrarossa goes with salami, home-made mini pizzas, home-made pasta, veal shin, apple pie and more, though you will probably need one of their grappas before bed! (ZA 18/09/07)