THE FEBRUARY CLASSICS

Feb 1

FAVARO PIEDMONT

Favaro “F2” Canavese Rosso DOC, 2022

The “F2” is Favaro’s vibrant expression of Freisa, one of Piedmont’s most charming and underappreciated native red grapes. Often enjoyed locally as a fresh, spirited table wine, Freisa brings an irresistible combination of bright fruit, floral lift, and gentle spice. It is a variety that feels both rustic and beautifully alive. In the cooler, alpine-influenced hills of Canavese, it takes on an especially energetic, food-friendly character.

Tasting

The nose is immediately inviting, with aromas of ripe cherry, wild raspberry, and red currant, layered with hints of violet, dried herbs, and a subtle peppery spice that is so typical of Freisa. On the palate, the wine is juicy and medium-bodied, with refreshing acidity and fine, slightly grippy tannins that give it structure without heaviness. Flavors of bright red berries carry through, joined by a touch of earthy warmth and a gentle savory edge. The finish is lively and lifted. It is the kind of red that feels effortless to drink, but full of personality.

This is Piedmont in its more casual, everyday mode: authentic, fresh, and endlessly versatile at the table.

Pairings we love:

Charcuterie and aged cheeses
Mild Indian curries
Grilled lamb skewers

GET THE LAMB SKEWERS RECIPE

Favaro “Ros” Canavese Nebbiolo 2023

Favaro’s “Ros” is Nebbiolo seen from a different angle—grown in the northern reaches of Piedmont, closer to the Alps than to Barolo, where the air runs cooler and the wines tend to feel lifted and finely etched. The wine is named for Rosanna, Camillo Favaro’s mother, and it carries that sense of personal, old-school intention: not flashy, not overworked—just Nebbiolo with clarity and nerve.

In the cellar, Favaro treats Nebbiolo with patience. The grapes are mostly destemmed (about 80%), and fermentation takes place in 500L open tonneaux for roughly three weeks- long enough to build structure, but handled gently. Aging follows in older (4th/5th passage) barriques and tonneaux for about 14 months, then a short rest in bottle before release. The result isn’t oaky—it’s textured, shaped, and quietly confident.

Tasting

Aromatically, this is classic Nebbiolo: rose petal and fresh flowers, red cherry and strawberry, plus a hint of tea-like spice and a faint smokiness. On the palate it’s medium-bodied, bright and savory, with fine, well-formed tannins that give the wine grip without heaviness. Think: red berries, delicate spice, and that distinctly Piedmontese, mouthwatering finish that makes you want another bite of food.

Pairings (a few favorites)