Founded in 2024, Neomo is the perfect yin-and-yang partnership: Jesse Giacomelli, winemaker for Beckstoffer Vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley, and Evan Abrams, a New York City–based sommelier. Together, they bring a fresh perspective to small-lot, handcrafted Cabernet Sauvignon—where Napa Valley tradition meets modern sensibility.

Before teaming up with Evan, Jesse sharpened his craft at a boutique winery in Alexander Valley, an experience that opened the door to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: becoming winemaker for Andy Beckstoffer of Beckstoffer Vineyards. Over the following years, Jesse immersed himself in Napa Valley’s most celebrated vineyards, studying Beckstoffer’s meticulous farming practices, diverse soil compositions, and world-renowned terroir while refining his own winemaking philosophy.

That journey ultimately led to the creation of Copper Bear Wines, Jesse’s small-production label dedicated to wines of balance, finesse, and elegance. Building on Copper Bear’s success—and inspired by Evan’s experience on the other side of the industry—the two decided to create something new: a Cabernet Sauvignon that captures the character of Napa Valley’s finest vineyards while remaining loyal to the land with an Old Napa profile.

With Neomo, Jesse showcases a neomodern approach to winemaking: thoughtful, precise, and intentionally restrained. Modern tools are employed with a light touch. New French oak is carefully moderated, alcohol and acidity are kept in harmony, and fruit expression is guided—not exaggerated—to create a wine with softness, structure, and remarkable length on the palate. The result is an elegant Cabernet that lets Napa Valley’s legendary soils speak for themselves.

Producing fewer than 400 cases annually, Neomo is a rare expression of purity and place. Sourced from some of Napa Valley’s most historic and sought-after vineyards in the Calistoga and Rutherford AVAs, it captures the essence of both terroir and variety in every bottle.

Coming from the highly regarded 2023 vintage, the inaugural wine has been well received, earning 92 points from the International Wine Report.

‘The 2023 Neomo Cabernet Sauvignon opens aromas of ripe cherries and boysenberries, layered with hints of exotic spices, licorice, and a subtle touch of graphite that adds intriguing complexity. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied experience, where the core is lifted by vibrant acidity making for a compelling, structured wine that can evolve nicely over the next decade.’

- J. D’Angelo, International Wine Report

‍ ‍