- Practicing Organic
- 76% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc
- Mayacamas Vineyards (Mt. Veeder AVA)
- Volcanic ash and igneous rocky soils
- 1,800 to 2,400 ft elevation
- Hand-harvested
- Fermented in concrete (80%) and stainless steel (20%)
- Aged 12 months in large format foudre 45HL and 8 months in neutral French oak barrique (228L)
- 14% abv
Info
Producer:
Vintage:
2023
Country:
United States
Region:
California
Appellation:
Mt. Veeder
Variety:
Merlot
Color:
Red
Farming Practice:
Certified Organic - USDA/NOPÿ
Sizes Available
| Full Bottle | US-MAY-22-23 | 12/750ml |
Press & Reviews
Vinous
Score
92
Date
2025-11-13
"The 2023 Merlot is a super elegant wine from Mayacamas. In 2023, the Merlot is a touch slender, a combination of the cooler vintage and the high presence of Cabernet Franc that now informs this blend. It will be interesting to see if the 2023 blossoms with a bit of time in bottle."
REVIEWS FROM PAST VINTAGES
VinePair
Score
99
Date
2023-05-09
"Living on the mountain range it™s named after, Vineyards has a long history beginning in the late 19th century when it was called Fisher and Sons and planted to the Zinfandel grape. Over the years it changed hands to Jack and Mary Taylor in the '40s who gave it its current name and improved the property's facilities and planted the first vines of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. It was in the late '60s when Bob and Eleanor Travers took the helm that the wines of Vineyards were recognized in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. To say this winery is still thriving today is an understatement. The balance in this wine is impeccable, with deep fruit on the nose and a waft of pepperiness to excite the senses. The mouthfeel is in such harmony it™s hard to write about. The weight is just right, the texture is expertly built, and the structure to seamless with tannins woven into the wine. When we think of American Cab this is what we think of."
Wine Spectator
Score
96
Date
2023-07-19
"Loaded with character and energy, this reveals heavy notes of zesty sweet bay leaf and sassafras, which infuse a core of steeped red currant and mulberry fruit, all carried by bright acidity and iron-laced tannins. The long finish pulls everything together, with the fruit, savory and mineral elements in harmony. Shows a touch of old school and has a long life ahead. Best from 2025 through 2045. From California."J.M."
Vinous
Score
94
Date
2022-01-07
Wine Spectator
Score
94
Date
2024-09-04
"Precise and polished, with a well-framed core of lively acidity and well-buffed tannins that supports rich red currant, coffee bean and savory anise tones. Drink now through 2031. "T.F."
Vinous
Score
92
Date
2016-12-01
Wine Advocate
Score
92+
Date
2024-07-03
"Enchanting aromas of red and black cherries lead the way on the nose of the 2021 Merlot, joined by gentle herbal notes reminiscent of thyme, sage and mint. A blend of 76% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc, matured in larger and/or older oak vessels for aging, it's a medium to full-bodied, silky wine, nicely balanced and ready to drink now but with enough stuffing to think it will age nicely for a decade or more."