Mt. Veeder Pinot Noir

This bottle was generously provided by a friend, direct from his cellar. Let me start by stating that this wine made an impression. For one, I had never even seen a bottle of Mayacamas Pinot Noir (I think they only made a couple hundred cases a year). Second, at nearly 16 years old, I knew this was made by Bob Travers which meant we were probably in for a unique experience. I was not wrong. Popped and poured; no formal notes due to the setting. The wine poured a deep ruby with just a little bit of fine sediment which turned out to be the only thing that indicated any age on this bottle. Frankly, this came across…like it was a baby. Incredibly primary notes of tart red fruits, rhubarb, green herbs, olive, and dry earth. The other interesting characteristic was that it seemed to have a heavy influence of American oak. I seem to recall Bob Travers had some unusual cellar practices…but I don’t recall him using very much new oak…if at all. Anyway, this was a really unique wine and unlike any other Pinot Noir from Napa that I have ever had. The stated 15% alcohol seems almost laughable. If that’s true, then it’s remarkably controlled. If this bottle is a true indication of evolution, then expect a long life ahead. Drink now with a decant or enjoy through 2031.