Freisa

Freisa is a red Italian wine grape variety that is grown primarily in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. In the Langhe region, Freisa was historically a major constituent of the local wine but has been largely replaced by Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto. Today, Freisa is found mainly in the Chieri region of Piedmont.

History

The origins of Freisa are not entirely clear, but it is believed to be indigenous to the Piedmont region. Some theories suggest that it may be related to the French grape Syrah. However, DNA profiling has not confirmed any genetic relationship between the two varieties.

Viticulture

Freisa is a vigorous grape variety that can be a challenge to manage in the vineyard due to its propensity for producing high yields. The grape naturally high acidity can make it a versatile component in a variety of winemaking styles, from still, semi-sparkling to fully sparkling wines, dry and sweet.

Wine regions

While Freisa is grown throughout the Piedmont region, it is most widely planted in the provinces of Asti, Cuneo, and Turin, where it is often used in the production of Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wines. The grape is also used in the production of Vermouth in Turin.

Styles

Freisa wines are typically light-bodied and highly aromatic, with flavors of fresh red fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries, and floral notes of rose. The wines can also have a significant tannic structure, which can be softened through the process of malolactic fermentation.

Food pairing

Due to its high acidity and tannic structure, Freisa wines pair well with a variety of foods, including meat dishes, pasta with rich sauces, and strong cheeses.

See also

• List of Italian grape varieties
• Italian wine