Freisa

Grape variety	Freisa
Synonyms	Known alternately as freisa d'Asti, freisa di Chieri, or simply freisa.
Grape colour	Red grape
History	Freisa, a native grape of Piedmont, Italy, has been cultivated for centuries. It made its first historical appearance in the 16th century and has been a prominent grape in the Piedmont region ever since. It was particularly popular during the 18th century when it was famously described in the Georgian Calendar of the Turin Convent of Nuvolone. Despite a decline in cultivation during the 20th century, it has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity and is once again a beloved staple of the region.
Ampelographic features	Freisa is characterized by medium-small, trilobate leaves that are a vibrant light green in color. Its bunches are typically medium in size, elongated, and occasionally slightly winged. The berries are medium, can be slightly oval in shape, with a black-blue skin that is somewhat thin but also quite resilient. The pulp is juicy, sweet yet slightly sour, contributing to a unique flavor profile. The berries' juice is colorless and the pedicels often display a reddish hue, adding to the visual appeal of the grape.
Characteristics of the wine	Wine made from the Freisa grape is recognized for its decent color contribution and, more importantly, its acid and structural characteristics that make it suitable for medium-term maturation. It's a quintessential Piedmont wine, with persistent and penetrating scents of raspberry and violet. Depending on its preparation, the taste can range from dry to sweet, and the wine can even be slightly sparkling. When consumed young, it's vibrant, fresh, and invigorating, but as it ages, it develops more mature tones with the fruit darkening and the emergence of some tertiary notes.