# Piemonte DOC Barbera Freisa (2024)

- **Producer:** G.D. Vajra
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera, Freisa
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, plum, violet, black pepper, smoke, prune, dried fig

## About this wine

G.D. Vajra is an iconic producer located in Vergne, the highest village within the Barolo appellation in Piedmont, Italy. Founded by Aldo Vaira in 1972 after he began working organically on his family's land in 1971, the estate is renowned for its steadfast commitment to organic farming and traditional, unforced winemaking. The distinctive light-blue label of this Barbera Freisa cuvée pays homage to a historic bottle preserved in the winery's tasting room labeled Barbera Fresia 70. That original wine was crafted by Aldo's grandfather, Carlo Carlin Vaira, from a traditional field blend planted with Barbera and a single row of Freisa intended for family gatherings.

## Interesting facts

- The light-blue label pays homage to a 1970 bottle made by founder Aldo Vaira's grandfather, Carlin.
- Aldo Vaira began organic farming in 1971 as a 15-year-old university student long before it became a movement.
- The Barbera and Freisa grapes are co-fermented together rather than blended after fermentation.

## Food pairing

The naturally high, crisp acidity of Barbera cuts effortlessly through fatty meats, rich pork dishes, and cheese, while Freisa provides gentle tannins and subtle spice that complement savory tomato bases and rustic pasta ragùs.

## Wine making process

The 2024 vintage comprises 55% Barbera and 45% Freisa harvested from estate vineyards planted on laminated Sant'Agata Fossili marls interspersed with stones at 350 to 400 meters elevation. The grapes undergo a 16-day spontaneous co-fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing the two distinct varieties to integrate seamlessly from the start. Aging takes place over approximately 8 months exclusively in stainless steel tanks to preserve the natural vibrancy, aromatics, and pristine purity of the fruit without any oak influence.