Giuseppe Mascarello Langhe Freisa Toetto 2021

Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio is a small family winery in Piedmont, founded in 1881 and better known for Barolo, here working the local Freisa grape as a Langhe red. Freisa is closely related to Nebbiolo and shares its high acidity, floral scent and firm tannin on a lighter frame. The wine ferments in cement and stainless steel and ages six months in Slavonian oak foudres, large old casks that give gentle oxygen exchange while keeping the fruit and terroir clear rather than adding oak flavour. The colour is bright ruby with a slight tint. The nose is perfumed, showing red cherry, wild strawberry, rose and a note of black pepper. The palate is light to medium bodied, with tart red fruit, brisk acidity and a fine, slightly grippy tannin that gives it structure. The finish is savoury and clean. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, and it takes a slight chill well in warm weather. It pairs with charcuterie, roast poultry and mushroom dishes, and suits tomato-based pasta.