Mayacamas, the renown Napa Valley vineyard located atop Mount Veeder, is proud to announce the release of its 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Braiden Albrecht and Consulting Winemaker Andy Erickson produced the vineyard’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon, which earned a near perfect 99-point rating from revered wine critic Antonio Galloni.
The 2016 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon was entirely sourced from 20 to 30-year-old hillside vineyards within the Mount Veeder Appellation. This distinct climate produces some of the lowest yields in the valley from soil ranging from poor volcanic deposits to ancient seabeds, resulting in a clean and mineral character. The grapes are harvested early to retain their natural acidity and structured tannins and fermented in a combination of cement vat fermenters and stainless-steel tanks. After approximately two weeks on skins, grapes are gently pressed and ready to age for 32 months in neutral oak, 20 months in large format foudres and 12 months in barrique. After bottling, the wine was cellared for an additional year before release.
“The 2016 growing season was ideal from start to finish with a tranquil spring and warm, consistent summer temperatures, allowing for even ripening and beautiful quality,” said Braiden Albrecht, Winemaker at Mayacamas. “The 2016 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon embodies the fresh, yet powerful qualities of our mountain-grown fruit.”
The nose on the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is bright with raspberry and resinous pencil shavings. The wine becomes steadily more expressive in the glass, revealing brambly fruit and pomegranate aromas. Fruit is balanced by flinty minerality and Mount Veeder’s signature freshness. Fine, earthy tannins bring depth and focus to the wine before melting into a long, mouthwatering finish.
The 2016 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon will be available for purchase in September 2020 for $135. 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 and a renewed focus on the details of great viticulture and winemaking, their vision is coming to fruition. The highly skilled team includes winemaker Braiden Albrecht under the tutelage of Andy Erickson–one of the most accomplished winemakers of his generation. In the vineyard, Phil Coturri–renowned organic viticulturist–oversees the process of replanting and regenerating the soil. 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.
