Freisa
The Strawberry Ghost
Freisa is grown in Asti, Chieri and Langhe.
4regions it is known for
2other names
- Tastes of
- wild strawberry, raspberry, violet and pepper
- Goes with
- bollito misto, cotechino and light pasta dishes
- Also called
- Freisa di Chieri, Freisa d'Asti
The story
Freisa is Piedmont's forgotten indigenous grape—once more popular than Nebbiolo. The name means 'strawberry' in dialect, and the wine delivers: wild strawberry with violet and rose. Giacomo Conterno makes an excellent version.
Insider story
Freisa was Piedmont's everyday red before Barbera.
The frizzante (slightly sparkling) version is traditional.
Conterno's proves the grape's serious potential.
Technical deep dive
Light to medium-bodied, aromatic red.
Can be still or frizzante.
Delicate tannins, fresh acidity.
Industry secrets
Freisa is the insider's Piedmont pick.
When Conterno makes it seriously, people pay attention.
For collectors
Investment grade C
- Auction records
- Conterno versions fetch $40-60
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Giacomo Conterno
- Vajra
- Coppo
- Value picks
- Freisa d'Asti or Chieri ($12-25)
- Price trend
- Stable.
- Collector’s tip
- Conterno Freisa is the only collectable version.