Mayacamas Chardonnay Mt. Veeder 2023

From the rugged elevations of Mt. Veeder in Napa Valley, the 2023 Mayacamas Chardonnay is a vibrant expression of mountain terroir and restrained craftsmanship. Grown at heights between 1,800 and 2,100 feet, the grapes benefit from the estate’s cool microclimates and volcanic soils, producing a wine that balances freshness and complexity. Organically farmed and hand-harvested, this Chardonnay reflects the time-honored traditions of a site that has been shaping California wine since 1889.

The wine opens with bright aromatics of white and yellow flowers, followed by layered notes of Anjou pear, Golden Delicious apple, and candied lemon peel. Its mid-palate builds with texture and depth, revealing subtle accents of chamomile, yuzu citrus, and lemon-grass. The finish is marked by a flinty minerality and lingering salinity, a signature of high-altitude Chardonnay. Fermentation in neutral oak and the absence of malolactic fermentation preserve its crisp character and natural acidity.

Crafted from 100% Chardonnay with an alcohol content of 13.5%, this vintage was pressed using a mix of whole cluster and tread methods before aging in a mix of puncheon, foudre, and barrique for up to 18 months. Best enjoyed slightly chilled, this wine is suited for refined seafood dishes, creamy cheeses, or simply sipped on its own to appreciate the purity of Mt. Veeder fruit and the precision of Mayacamas winemaking.