Freisa is a black grape varietal that's been growing in Piedmont for at least a few centuries.  Red wines created from this grape come in dry, sweet, or frizzante styles, and I've even read the varietal can be used in the production of vermouth.  Once an important grape in Piedmont, Freisa has not been very fashionable of late, but there are a few producers that still embrace it, possibly the most important being G.D. Vajra.

Recent testing has revealed that Freisa is the genetic parent of Nebbiolo and the two share similar traits like strong tannins, high acidity and floral aromas of violets or roses.  Where Nebbiolo offers tar, truffle and baking spices, Freisa leans more toward herbal, possibly medicinal or digestive-like.  Strawberry is the primary flavor of examples in the market, but Vajra's Kye is bolder featuring black cherry and raspberry, with hints of plum and orange zest.  While tasting this wine I immediately began looking up leg of lamb recipes and plan on pairing them soon!

2007 G.D. Vajra Freisa Kye is the first Freisa we've sold at Sokolin and it's easy to see why Galloni scored it 94 points.  For only $35.99 I'd say it's definitely worth trying something old that's something new.