The Freisa grape is a red Italian wine grape variety that hails predominantly from the Piedmont region in northern Italy. It is known for the red wines it produces under the Freisa di Chieri designation, which are characterised by their tart red fruit flavours and pronounced bitter finish. This grape has a distinctive bouquet, often compared with wild strawberries and roses.
Freisa grapes are typically grown on the hilly terrain, especially in Langhe, Roero and Monferrato areas, some of Piedmont's most distinguished wine regions. The unique terroir of these regions, a combination of specific soil types and microclimates, results in wines that truly embody the grape's character.
The resulting wines range in style from sparkling variants to still and dessert wines, with both dry and sweet versions produced. However, the most common style of Freisa wine is a slightly fizzy (frizzante), off-dry style. This versatility in wine styles is a marked characteristic of the Freisa grape and sets it apart from other regional Italian grapes.
Freisa grape produces wine with a deep red colour, intense fruity notes, and a robust body, often accompanied by tannins that give the wine a distinct dryness. It is renowned for having a naturally high acidity, which imparts the final product with a fresh and tangy flavour. The wines produced from Freisa grapes are robust, hearty, and diverse, offering impressive ageing potential.
Historically, Freisa grape is believed to be a relative of Nebbiolo, the grape behind some of Italy's most revered wines like Barolo and Barbaresco. Its heritage signifies a hidden depth and complexity often overlooked by casual wine drinkers. Today, despite being a lesser-known wine, Freisa is coveted by wine connoisseurs for its unique characteristic and singularity, deviating from the usual reds.
Thanks to the efforts of dedicated growers and winemakers, Freisa is enjoying a renaissance of sorts, amongst wine lovers who appreciate its distinctive qualities.
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