2023 Cascina Corte Langhe Freisa

Place: Piedmont, Italy

Variety: Freisa

Farming: Organic

Cascina Corte is the small, organically farmed estate of Sandro Barosi and Amalia Battaglia, tucked into the hills of Dogliani in southern Piedmont. Having rescued an abandoned farmhouse and its surrounding vineyards in 2001, the couple have built a reputation for honest, characterful wines that celebrate the region's traditional varieties. Their approach is refreshingly hands-off, allowing the fruit and vineyard to do the talking.

Freisa, a traditional Piedmontese variety closely related to Nebbiolo. Juicy wild strawberry, ripe cherry and red plum are joined by violet, dried herbs and a little peppery spice. There's lovely energy to the palate, with vibrant red fruit, refreshing acidity and fine, slightly rustic tannins providing plenty of character. Medium-bodied, fragrant and beautifully savoury, with a gentle earthy edge and a lively, mouthwatering finish. A wonderfully expressive Italian red that's made for good food and another glass.