2010 G.D. Vajra, Freisa “Kye” DOC Langhe, Piedmonte, Italy.
The Vajra Freisa is exotic and glorious, by far the most intriguing and complex version of this grape I have sampled so far, the 2008 and 2009 were stunning wines as well, showing Vajra has a magic touch with this native varietal which is gaining a strong following. Freisa is rich and colorful like Barbera, it has a bit more perfume like Ruche (another rare local to Piedmonte grape) and has a intense wild strawberry essence, in some ways I might say it is like a meeting of Nebbiolo and Gamay, but regardless the G.D. Vajra Kye Freisa is a wine that deserves it’s high praise, this is very special stuff. The 2010 is gloriously complete and attractive in every way possible with a bouquet of lilac and roses with hints of lavender, fennel and kirsch along with mineral, red fruits and spice cake leading to a medium/full mouth showing the trademark strawberry, raspberry and juicy plum as well as some darker notes of loganberry, sweet herbs, saline and touch of licorice. This wine is round and lush on the palate with silky tannins, vivid layers lifted by nice acidity and a lengthy finish, this is fantastic Freisa, I highly recommend you search this Italian rarity out, it will not be an easy find, but it will be worth it, this wine offers a great reward, drink from 2014 to 2020, and don’t miss any of Vajra’s wines from their Riesling to their stunning Barolo, this winery is pure quality and flair.
($48 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
