NAPA VALLEY, August 2019 – Mayacamas, the historic Napa Valley winery located in the hills of Mount Veeder, is proud to announce the release of its 2015 Merlot. 785 cases were produced by the storied vineyard’s highly skilled team, including Winemaker Braiden Albrecht and Consulting Winemaker Andy Erickson.
The grapes for the Merlot are grown on the steep, rocky hillsides of Mount Veeder. Grown between 1,800 and 2,000 ft. in elevation, these 30-year old vines produce small, intensely favored berries. The Mayacamas team harvests the grapes early to retain bright acidity and firm tannins. After two weeks of fermentation in concrete and stainless steel, the grapes are gently pressed and the aging process begins. The 2015 Merlot was aged 22 months in oak – 10 months in large format foudre and 12 months in barrique. The wine was then bottled and cellared another 12 months before release.
“The 2015 growing season was highlighted by a cool spring and moderate summer temperatures. The Merlot berry size was small, yields were low and the resulting wine has great intensity and length” said Braiden Albrecht, Winemaker at Mayacamas. “We are very pleased with this vintage and feel it continues the distinguished history and storied legacy of the vineyard.”
On the nose, the aromatics of the 2015 Merlot consist of just-ripe cherry and soft rose petals, perfectly complementing the layered undertones of dried sage and wet slate all characteristic of Mayacamas’ authentic style. On the palate to round it out, the wine’s fresh acidity and minerality create focus at the finish and pair with the notes of ripe pomegranate, fresh tobacco and flint.
The 2015 Mayacamas Merlot is officially available both direct to consumers and via wholesale today, priced at $60 for a 750mL bottle. For more information, please visit Mayacamas.com.
ABOUT MAYACAMAS
Founded in 1889, Mayacamas stands as one of the most storied vineyards and winery operations in Napa Valley, CA, located high on the slopes of Mount Veeder. Since the 1950’s the vinification of Mayacamas wines has remained remarkably consistent with a continued commitment to employ classical techniques and tools that are integral to the character of the Mayacamas brand and product. In July 2013, Mayacamas was purchased by the Jay Schottenstein family, marking the beginning of a bright new era at Mayacamas. The Schottenstein’s will continue the Mayacamas legacy and distinguished 125 year history while simultaneously moving the brand into the future. Through meticulous restoration of the winery, a renewed focus on the details of great farming and winemaking and employing a highly skilled team including Winemaker Braiden Albrecht under the tutelage of Andy Erickson – one of the most accomplished winemakers of his generation, and Phil Coturri – renowned organic viticulturist, to oversee the process of replanting the vineyards and regenerating the soils; their vision is coming to fruition. For more information, please visit: www.mayacamas.com.
