Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Piccolo Cru’ – Red Blend – Vintage 2021
Calistoga, Napa Valley, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
An Italian-inspired Bordeaux blend crafted under the steady hand of winemaker Gabriella Gazano, who has guided the estate for over 25 years. This cuvée unites 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 15% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. It’s a wine that marries the structural power of Bordeaux varietals with Mediterranean elegance and Napa Valley ripeness.

Aromas & Flavors
Vibrant layers of dark cherries, cassis, and ripe blackberry, supported by graphite, cocoa, and a whisper of dried herbs. Hints of cedar, vanilla, and warm spice from the oak complete the aromatic tapestry.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied yet graceful. Firm, polished tannins give structure while a velvety mid-palate carries richness and depth. The finish is persistent, balancing dark fruit with savory spice.

Food Pairings
Made for hearty and soulful fare: osso buco, braised short ribs, Tuscan ribollita, or grilled ribeye. A natural partner for Italian-inspired dishes that emphasize flavor and tradition.

Verdict
Piccolo Cru’ is a harmonious bridge between Old World refinement and New World power. Structured, soulful, and deeply satisfying, it captures both the strength of Napa terroir and the finesse of Italian winemaking artistry.

Did You Know?
Calistoga, the northernmost tip of Napa Valley, is famed for its volcanic soils and hot days cooled by evening breezes. These extremes allow Bordeaux varietals to develop ripeness and structure in equal measure, ideal for blends like Piccolo Cru’.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This bottle sings of duality: a Tuscan heart wrapped in Napa muscle. It’s soulful, elegant, and powerful, a wine I’d revisit for its depth, story, and sense of place. — 2 days ago

Nicholas Cotton

9.1

With Pip at Ephraim's birthday — 8 months ago

T

8.9

Fig? Plum? Sea salt. Has the density and richness of a dessert wine, but it isn’t. Strange and good. — 4 years ago

with PFM

Freddy R. Troya

9.2

Bella Novello – Cabernet Sauvignon – Vintage 2023
Napa Valley, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A tribute wine named after Teresa Novello, this Cabernet Sauvignon carries the elegance of heritage with the power of Napa terroir. Crafted in limited production (just 850 cases), Bella Novello is youthful yet already expressive, shaped by winemaking that blends Italian finesse with Napa Valley boldness.

Aromas & Flavors
Aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, and blackberry intertwine with cedar, graphite, and touches of dried violet. Subtle hints of mocha and spice round out its aromatic depth.

Mouthfeel
Structured and youthful, with firm tannins and a focused core of dark fruit. The mid-palate shows promise of expansion, leading to a lingering finish marked by cassis and savory spice. Designed to reward both patience and curiosity.

Food Pairings
Pair with classic dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised lamb shanks, or wild mushroom risotto. Its backbone of tannin and freshness makes it ideal for rich, protein-driven meals.

Verdict
Bella Novello is a Cabernet with poise, combining Old World inspiration and Napa’s hallmark concentration. Drinkable now with decanting, but truly a wine built to age gracefully over the next decade.

Did You Know?
The Novello family’s Italian roots are deeply honored through this label, bringing a personal story of heritage to the heart of Napa winemaking.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This Cabernet feels like a future classic, bold yet refined. While still youthful, it already hints at the elegance it will achieve with time. A bottle worth cellaring, but also one to enjoy now with the right meal and good company. Cheers! — 2 days ago

Suzanne Verhulst

9.0

Earthy, natty, bright acidity and tannins, tart cherry, white pepper. Opens up quickly. Very pleasant. — 5 months ago

Raun Kupiec

8.9

A lot of red and black fruit, and a smooth mild structure. Very nice. — 9 months ago

with Barbara

Ray Vanderhoff

9.2

Light straw color. Delicate aromas and flavors of green melon, unripe peaches, white flowers and a light touch of minerality. Nice hint of blanched nuts on the long and crisp finish. Beautifully balanced and fresh. Outstanding value. — 2 months ago

Anastassia Laskey

9.0

Slightly effervescent, with dried apricots, honeysuckle.... superbly drinkable and a great accompaniment to watching YouTube videos about influencers. — 2 months ago

Tom Casagrande

9.2

Perfectly mature and so nice. So much spice, mahogany furniture, 19th Century first editions, and complexity in the perfume. Still a fair amount of relaxed, spiced cherry fruit on the palate, with interesting leather notes. Tannins resolved, decent acids. It’s 15% listed alcohol, but it’s not poking out. — 8 months ago

Mike Holzer

9.2

Cherry tobacco nose which carries through on mouth with smooth tannins and clove undertones delicious. Ready now but 5+ years left. 2 bottles leftover — 5 years ago

with Ania