2014 Musso Langhe Freisa

Region: Langhe < Piemonte < Italy
Grapes: Freisa
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: organic farming; clay and limestone soils; fermented and aged in stainless steel;
Winemaker: Valter Musso  

From a super old (started in 1929) and even older-school winery in Barbaresco, and has made wine continuously ever since, with the Musso family still at the helm. While they are famous for their Barbaresco, it was the Freisa, which comes from the same Cru vineyard of Rio Sordo as their top Barbaresco, that stole our hearts. You hardly ever see Freisa, a noble grape of Piemonte, stateside, which is a shame. Because it can be so good, especially made in the old style, with a little effervescence thanks to a second fermentation. So don’t be surprised when you get a tiny bit of prickly fizz, it is supposed to be this way! Tastes like liquorice made with cherries and strawberries dipped in tar, with some baking spice sprinkled on. An intriguing wine that needs a very slight chill – perfect as an aperitivo red or with meaty or mushroom dishes.