Scarpa 'Freisa' Monferrato, Piedmont, Italy

The 2021 vintage was a strong year for Piedmont, producing wines noted for ripe fruit, freshness, and structure, although local conditions varied across the region. From Scarpa’s I Bricchi estate in Monferrato, this Freisa shows the grape’s lively red-fruit character with enough tannin and depth for the cellar. Raspberry and other small berries lead into subtle spice, a full, enveloping palate, and a lingering finish. Two years of aging in stainless steel preserve the fruit and varietal character.

Product Details:

• Producer & Bottler: Antica Casa Vinicola Scarpa
• Classification: Monferrato DOC; I Bricchi estate fruit. The wine is not identified with a separate Cru or MGA designation.
• Grape Blend: Freisa
• Vineyard: A 0.9-hectare parcel in Acqui Terme, at 400 meters elevation, with an east-facing exposure and red, clay-rich soils
• Fermentation: 12 days of skin maceration in stainless steel, with two manual pump-overs per day
• Aging: Malolactic fermentation and 24 months of aging in stainless steel
• Cellaring: The producer lists a potential longevity of more than 15 years

Sensory Description:

Deep ruby in color, with aromas and flavors of raspberry and other small red berries, joined by fine spice. The palate is full and enveloping, with pronounced tannins balanced by freshness. It finishes with lingering fruit and a firm, savory grip.

Awards & Accolades:

• 2020: 90 points, Wein.plus
• 2019: 93 points, Wine Enthusiast

Producer’s Background:

Founded in Nizza Monferrato in 1900, Scarpa is a historic Piedmont winery known for its focus on elegance, longevity, and regional grape varieties. Its I Bricchi estate, acquired in 1969, lies between Castel Rocchero and Acqui Terme. Scarpa later planted local varieties there, including Freisa, as part of its work to express the character of Monferrato.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with meat ravioli, grilled meats, lamb, or mature cheeses. Its firm tannins and freshness also make it a natural match for hearty Piedmontese dishes.