Mayacamas, meaning "call of the mountain lion," is recognized as one of Napa Valley’s premier wineries, known for producing fine mountain wines that highlight the region’s authentic character. The winery eschews trends of late harvesting for more power and flavor, opting instead for a focus on structure, balance, and ageworthiness in their wines.
Historically, the property was owned by two Catholic families during Prohibition, and it wasn’t until the 1940s that it transitioned into a winery. The Taylor family purchased it in 1941, planting Chardonnay with cuttings from Wente. The Taylors remained at the helm until 1968 when Bob Travers took ownership after stints at Heitz Cellars. Travers became a defining figure at Mayacamas, producing the 1971 vintage and maintaining a consistent winemaking philosophy until his retirement in 2013.
In the years between, the winery faced challenges, such as vineyard remodelings and wildfires. However, by 2024, the vineyards were fully re-established, featuring a combination of dry-farmed and irrigated plots. Mayacamas is located at a high elevation on Mount Veeder, where the cooler climate contributes to the distinctive profile of its wines, enriched by volcanic soils. About 60% of the land is dry-farmed. The estate, originally 52 acres, has expanded and diversified to include a variety of classic grape varietals, with Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon at its core.
Under new ownership since 2013, the current winemaking team aims to enhance the existing style rather than alter it, striving for perfection in their craftsmanship. The winery continues to age Cabernet Sauvignon in large format oak barrels before bottling.
During a recent visit, notable wines showcased included the Mayacamas Grenache Rosé, with its vibrant citrus notes, as well as the impressive range of Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons spanning multiple vintages. From the elegant Mt. Veeder Chardonnay 2022 to the robust Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, each label exemplifies the depth and complexity associated with the region. Vintage selections like the 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon displayed remarkable youthfulness, with fresh fruit and sophisticated herbal nuances, further emphasizing the winery’s legacy of ageworthy wines.
For more information, visit Mayacamas.