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What is Freisa di Chieri DOC?
Freisa di Chieri DOC is a historic red wine from Piedmont’s Turin hills, crafted almost entirely from the Freisa grape. Known for its delicate balance between rustic charm and refined elegance, it offers a lively mix of red berry fruit, floral aromas, and a characteristic tannic backbone. Once poured at the Savoy royal court, it’s a wine that embodies centuries of Piedmontese heritage — now enjoying a revival thanks to its royal vineyard roots.
History and Origins
The Freisa grape has been cultivated in Piedmont since at least the 16th century, with records linking it to noble tables in Turin. But the most captivating chapter belongs to the Villa della Regina, a 17th-century Savoy royal residence whose terraced vineyard once produced Freisa di Chieri for the House of Savoy.
Over time, urban expansion and changing tastes nearly erased this tradition. Yet in the early 2000s, a restoration project brought the royal vineyard back to life, replanting Freisa and reviving the link between Turin’s urban landscape and its viticultural history. Today, Freisa di Chieri carries this aristocratic heritage in every bottle.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The DOC spans the gentle, sun-kissed hills surrounding Turin, in northwestern Piedmont. Vineyards sit between 250–450 meters above sea level, benefiting from:
- Continental climate with warm summers and cold winters
- Calcareous and clay-limestone soils that enhance structure and aromatic complexity
- Cooling breezes from the nearby Alps, preserving acidity
The proximity to Turin makes Freisa di Chieri one of Italy’s rare urban-adjacent appellations — a wine you can taste in the shadow of baroque palaces.
The Grape
Freisa is an indigenous Piedmontese variety, genetically related to Nebbiolo. It is prized for its ability to produce wines ranging from lightly sparkling (vivace) to still and age-worthy. Known for high tannins and acidity, it’s a grape that marries rustic vigor with surprising elegance — especially when crafted in the Freisa di Chieri style.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Minimum grape content: At least 90% Freisa (the rest other authorized red varieties)
- Alcohol content: Minimum 11% ABV
- Aging: At least 4 months before release; Superiore versions require a minimum of 11.5% ABV and longer aging
- Styles: Still (tranquillo), lightly sparkling (vivace), and sweet (dolce) versions exist, though dry still wines dominate
Key Facts at a Glance
- DOC established: 1973
- Region: Piedmont (Turin province)
- Primary grape: Freisa (90%+)
- Royal connection: Historic Villa della Regina vineyard
- Styles: Still, sparkling (vivace), and sweet
Tasting Notes
Freisa di Chieri offers a sensory bridge between Piedmont’s more famous Nebbiolo and its rustic village wines:
- Color: Ruby red with violet highlights
- Nose: Ripe raspberry, wild strawberry, violet, hints of white pepper and earthy undertones
- Palate: Fresh acidity, medium body, grippy tannins, notes of tart cherry and herbal spice
- Finish: Dry, structured, and pleasantly bitter — a signature of the grape
Serving & Pairing
Serve at 16–18°C in medium-sized red wine glasses.
Pair with:
- Agnolotti del plin with meat sauce
- Grilled sausages or rabbit
- Bagna càuda with seasonal vegetables
- Mild to medium-aged cheeses like Toma Piemontese
Where to Buy & Pricing
Freisa di Chieri remains a niche wine, but it’s increasingly available through specialized Italian wine importers and online retailers. Expect €10–€20 in Italy and $18–$28 internationally, with Superiore versions at a premium.
FAQ on Freisa di Chieri DOC
Is Freisa di Chieri sweet or dry?
Most are dry, though lightly sparkling and sweet versions exist.
How long can it age?
Good vintages can evolve for 5–8 years, developing softer tannins and earthy complexity.
Is Freisa di Chieri related to Nebbiolo?
Yes — DNA profiling confirms a close genetic relationship.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- The Villa della Regina vineyard is one of Italy’s few urban vineyards, with rows of vines overlooking Turin’s skyline.
- In the 19th century, Freisa was often slightly sweet and fizzy — a style still cherished locally.
- The wine’s name is protected under Italian law, ensuring only wines from the DOC zone can carry it.
CTA for Audience Engagement
Have you ever tasted a wine made in the heart of a city? Share your Freisa di Chieri experience in the comments — or tag us on Instagram with your royal glass of Piedmontese history. 🍷👑
