Pezzato Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2023

Brands that have staying power are few and far between. With every exciting discovery we share, there are twenty or thirty other brands that don't quite cut it. We're looking for brands with conviction, quality, and a clear point of view. It can only be done when it comes from a place of authenticity. Quality cannot be manufactured; it has to be innate.

This latest up-and-comer grabbed our attention immediately! Michael Savaiano spent a decade learning the intricacies of viticulture while working for Premier Pacific Vineyards. The work involved tasting with each winemaker in their cellar and adjusting the winegrowing inputs accordingly to deliver fruit that best met their style and goals. Collaborating with over 100 winemakers each vintage, Michael developed skills that uniquely put his intuition in the vineyard above many others'. His skills did not go unnoticed. In 2017, he joined Russell Bevan at Tench Vineyards and eventually became the Director of Winemaking and Viticulture. Under Russell, Michael's skill set blossomed even further. As it so often happens, his knowledge and thirst for creativity drove him to launch a brand.

Introducing Pezzato, a super small-lot Cabernet brand with the it-factor! Both an ode to Michael's Italian heritage and his foundation in viticulture, Pezzato is an Italian word that roughly translates to dark and light, and is a personal reference to Michael's affinity for achieving balance in the vineyard. His 2023 is the fifth vintage of Pezzato Cabernet Sauvignon, and his passion shines through. The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Phelan Ranch, a stunning mountainous property in St. Helena that overlooks Lake Hennessey, and Durbin Vineyard, a small 8-acre vineyard in St. Helena originally planted by David Abreu. What stands out most about the Pezzato Cabernet is Michael’s dedication to crafting a delicious, drinkable, yet refined wine. After 17 months aging in 100% new French oak, the elements have woven together seamlessly with integrated tannins, elegant structure, and vibrant fruit and earth tones. Others have taken notice, with Jeb Dunnuck noting “Graves-like smoky red and black fruits, leafy tobacco, chocolate, and graphite notes…with a round, layered mouthfeel, plenty of structure, and a great finish.” Only 75 cases crafted!