Freisa is one of Piedmont’s historic and most representative grape varieties, with a presence documented as far back as the 16th century in the hills between Chieri, Turin and Asti. Mentioned in ancient Piedmontese customs tariffs and described at the end of the 18th century by Count Nuvolone, it has helped to shape the winemaking tradition of Monferrato and the Turin hills. It is a black-berried variety, hardy and fertile, characterised by medium-sized, cylindrical and often winged bunches, which are generally sparse. The berries are medium-sized, sub-round, with a firm, bluish-black skin rich in bloom; the flesh is soft, with a pleasant hint of acidity. The leaves, generally medium-sized, are light green, hairless and often slightly three-lobed, with a very open petiole sinus. It is mainly grown in the Chieri area, the Turin hills, the Asti area, Monferrato, the Alessandria area and certain parts of the Langhe, as well as the hilly regions around Pinerolo and Saluzzo. The wine has an intense ruby-red colour, sometimes developing towards garnet, with delicate aromas of raspberry, rose and violet, underpinned by freshness and a distinct tannic structure that is capable of refining over time. When young, it is lively, fragrant and well-structured; as it matures, it gains harmony and complexity. Freisa can be produced as still, semi-sparkling or sweet wines, demonstrating remarkable oenological versatility.
