Langhe Freisa
A new addition to the Rinaldi range — the 2022 marked the estate’s return to this ancient variety — and a fascinating one: DNA research has shown Freisa to be among Nebbiolo’s closest relatives, sharing its rose-scented perfume and firm tannic architecture. Where many producers make Freisa in a light, berry-bright style, Rinaldi’s version leans darker and more serious, marrying wild-berry fragrance with the structured, classical build that defines the house. A brief maceration preserves freshness; Slavonian oak rounds the frame.
Appellation: Langhe Freisa DOC
Type: Red, dry
Varietal: 100% Freisa
Color: Intense ruby red.
Bouquet: A fragrant, characteristic nose of rose, raspberry, and wild strawberry lifted by sage, mint, and graphite.
Palate: The palate is dry and full, with a well-defined tannic weave lending balance and persistence — the fruit charm of Freisa carried on a distinctly Rinaldi backbone.
Alcohol: 13.5-14.%
Serving Temperature: Serve at a 16-17°C (61-63°F)
Pairing: Tagliatelle al ragù, agnolotti, salumi, roast pork and poultry, and medium-aged cheeses. Its bright berry fruit and firm structure also stand up nicely to grilled sausages, mushroom dishes, and pizza.
Zone: Estate vineyards in the Langhe, Barolo area
Variety: Freisa — one of Piedmont's oldest indigenous grapes, its name derived from the Latin for strawberry
Harvest: By hand
Vinification: Maceration on the skins in stainless steel for 5 days; the must is then drawn off and completes fermentation separately from the skins (roughly 10 further days) to preserve freshness and balance
Aging: Approximately 6 months in 10 hL Slavonian oak casks — no barriques, in the house's traditionalist style
Style: Dry, structured, and aromatic
