RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

Liseiret, an indigenous grape once prominent in the Bormida Valley and nearby Alpine regions like Maira, Susa, and Pinerolese, has a long history as a table grape and a family-use varietal. Revered for its small berries, early ripening, and excellent tartaric acidity, it thrived in the region’s cold climates and was even noted in pre-phylloxera Europe. However, the Bormida Valley’s viticulture was decimated by industrial pollution from the Cengio factory, leaving only a few scattered vines. Known also as Preverial, Liseriet caught the attention of 1980s winemakers for its ability to enhance acidity in blends like Moscato d’Asti, though regulatory constraints halted further use. Today, as the Bormida Valley begins to recover, there is renewed hope that Liseiret may once again grace its historic terraced vineyards, reclaiming its place in Italy’s viticultural heritage.