Mayacamas, the distinguished Napa Valley winery located atop Mount Veeder, is pleased to announce the release of its 2018 Chardonnay and 2016 Merlot. The highly skilled team including Winemaker Braiden Albrecht and Consulting Winemaker Andy Erickson produced these vintages.
“The 12-month aging process for our 2018 Chardonnay built texture without eclipsing the delicate white flower notes that make this wine so attractive,” said Braiden Albrecht, Winemaker at Mayacamas. “Our 2016 Merlot is luscious yet structured, as the vines benefited from a pronounced maritime influence from salty evening breezes off the San Pablo Bay. We are excited to share both outstanding vintages as we feel they continue the distinguished history and storied legacy of the vineyard.”
The 2018 Chardonnay was primarily harvested from 46-year-old dry farmed Wente Clone vines which are grown in rocky, volcanic soils at a high elevation on Mount Veeder. Late spring rains and moderate summer temperatures concentrated the fruit’s flavor slowly, allowing for great precision. After being hand sorted and pressed whole cluster, the Chardonnay was fermented and aged in barrel, puncheon and foudre with 10 percent new French oak. The product is an aromatic and fresh Chardonnay, featuring acacia blossom, lemon zest, marzipan, and green pear notes underpinned by lingering salinity. A firm acid backbone is predicted to make for a mouthwatering finish over the next 15 years.
The slopes of Mount Veeder enjoyed consistent weather throughout 2016, making for a gentle harvest for the Merlot. The team began relatively early in mid-September to accentuate the true character of the grapes and preserve natural acidity. Spending a total of 30 months in neutral oak foudre and barrels, the wine was able to soften slowly before bottling. The result is an excellent release consisting of velvety fruit, balanced by savory notes and Mount Veeder’s tell-tale fine tannins. With a medium bodied palate and notes of fresh plum jam and black tea, the bright acidity and elegant structure of the 2016 Merlot predicts a 20-year drinking window.
The 2018 Chardonnay and 2016 Mayacamas Merlot and are officially available today through the end of March, priced at and $50 for a 750mL bottle of the Chardonnay and $65 for a750mL bottle of the Merlot. 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. Visitors can taste Mayacamas wines and shop luxury retail items at the Downtown Napa tasting room or tour the vineyard through an off-road mountain tasting experience. For more information, please visit: www.mayacamas.com.
