NAPA VALLEY, September 2021 – Mayacamas, the historic Napa Valley vineyard located atop Mount Veeder, is proud to announce the release of its 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon and library release of 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Braiden Albrecht and Consulting Winemaker Andy Erickson produced the 2017 vintage of the vineyard’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon, remaining consistent with the practices legendary winemaker Robert Travers utilized to create the 2007 release a decade ago.
Grapes for the 2007 and 2017 Cabernet Sauvignons were harvested from high-elevation vineyards on Mount Veeder in the cool mountain climate and the lowest yields in Napa Valley. This appellation produces soils ranging from poor volcanic deposits to ancient seabed, allowing these wines to retain high acidity and a clean, mineral character. After being interrupted by the forces of Mother Nature in October of 2017, the team took comfort in having already selected lots that best represent the classic style of Mayacamas. Perhaps one of the scarcest vintages to date, only 500 cases of the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon were produced.
“Releasing these two excellent and comparable cabernets that were harvested a decade a part showcases the team’s commitment to the classic techniques that have been vital to the quality of our wines since the 1950’s,” said Braiden Albrecht, Winemaker at Mayacamas. “We’re excited to share the vibrant and bold 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon that can be enjoyed over the next two decades, and we envision a long life for the tremendously layered 2007 library release with an extended drinking window of another 15-20 years.”
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with dried rose petals, sage, and ripe black cherry. The palate brings vibrant mountain structure interlaced with lavender, dark plum, and bay laurel and a long persistence on with red apple skin, menthol, and dried tobacco. Dried violet and lavender open the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, with a richly textured ripe mountain blackberry mid palate supported by vibrant tones of fresh cranberry and pomegranate. The inherent structure of this wine speaks to both the warm vintage and the hillside site, with the back palate giving way to savory tannins threaded with rocky mineral, bitter chocolate, and cool cedar tones.
The 2017 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon will be available for purchase September 2021 for $135 and the 2007 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon will be available for purchase for $250 in September 2021. 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.
