About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Kyè® combines fruit from three estate parcels. San Ponzio lies at the foot of Bricco delle Viole and was planted in 1980 with massal selections on pure Tortonian marl. Bergera, established in 1998, has lighter alluvial soils. Tarditi was planted in 2014 on sandy limestone in the Comune di Novello. Together, the sites contribute depth, structure, fragrance and lift.
The estate has used organic farming practices since 1971. Permanent grass cover and spontaneous vegetation help preserve soil structure, microbial activity, water retention and oxygenation while encouraging deeper root systems. The vineyards are certified organic, and the estate holds Equalitas sustainability certification. Extensive manual work and continuing research support biodiversity across the vineyards, surrounding fields and woodlands.
Grapes
100% Freisa. Genetic research led by Dr. Anna Schneider identified Freisa in 2004 as the closest known relative of Nebbiolo. The variety has long been part of Piemonte’s viticultural heritage, although fine dry examples remain uncommon.
Vinification
For the 2023 vintage, Freisa was picked from 3 to 15 October. Selection took place manually in three stages: directly on the vine, as whole clusters and finally as individual berries after destemming. Fermentation lasted approximately 43 days, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The 2023 received a gentle, short maturation of four months in Slavonian cask. It was bottled on 5 June 2024.
Technical data
Bottle format: 0.75 L.
Tasting profile
The 2023 reflects Freisa’s structured, vibrant character. Dried violet, pomegranate and sour cherry introduce the bouquet, followed by sandalwood, orange peel and sweet tobacco. The palate balances a natural tannic grip with lively acidity. Forest berries, lavender, star anise and black tea lead into a long, tactile and finely textured finish.
Vintage notes
The 2023 growing season in Barolo combined erratic conditions with several classical markers. Budbreak came early, around mid-March, and flowering was also early, while the phenolic season was long. The late harvest benefited from pronounced day-to-night temperature changes. Loose clusters produced low yields of very healthy fruit, giving the vintage density, vibrant energy and firm structure.
Label / history
Kyè means “Who is?” in the Occitan dialect, expressing the surprise inspired by this ancient and unexpected variety. First produced in 1989, the wine is conceived as a dry, still tribute to Freisa’s generous yet poised and individual personality. Its introductory phrase—“the sun or the moon?”—plays on the sense of mystery embodied by the name.
