
Mason is quintessential Napa Valley—crafting classically styled wines from meticulously farmed vineyards since 1993. As a proud Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc pioneer, founder and winemaker Randy Mason has focused his craft on showcasing the unique character of dynamic, versatile varietals through the lens of Napa Valley vineyards. Randy’s minimalist approach to winemaking lets these distinct sites truly shine, representing a rich history of strong grower relationships with the finest farming practices.
Ultimately, we make these wines to be shared. Our collection of elegant and balanced wines are ideal for any occasion, from sun-drenched afternoons to cozy nights at home.
Mason Cellars Pelissa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon.
The 2020 Mason Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is quintessentially Oakville from nose to finish. Attractive fresh blackberry, red current and chocolate with a hint of sweet oak boast out of the glass. This wine showcases graphite, velvety tannins and concentrated, beautifully balanced flavors with a bit of spice and white pepper. These bold flavors typical of Oakville Cabernet are rounded out with velvety tannins, a weighty mid-palate and a long, juicy finish.
Production Notes:
The fruit was delicately hand-picked in the early morning hours and brought into the winery for processing. The grapes were crushed, about 60% whole berry, and cold soaked for three days before being inoculated for primary and malo-lactic fermentation. Once dry, the wine was put down to barrel for 20 months in medium toast French oak, 25% of which was new.
Vineyard Notes:
Grapes for our 2020 Mason Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced exclusively from the Pelissa Vineyard in Oakville. This vineyard spans 60 acres and is planted to Old BV Clone 7 Cabernet Sauvignon as well as Zinfandel. This vineyard is named for Andrew and Babe Pelissa, who after their marriage on August 30, 1930, made their home at the site of this vineyard which, at the time, was a dairy. Oakville is the core of Napa Valley’s famed Cabernet Sauvignon production, and this site is no exception with the flawless blending of climate and soil to create a remarkable wine.
Review:
“This firmly structured, well-balanced wine has the feel of a classic Bordeaux blend. Just-ripe red and black fruits blend with subtle toast, cedar and mint on a moderately tannic, slightly tangy texture. The wine is tasty enough to decant and drink soon with grilled lamb chops or roast chicken. Best from 2026–2036.” – Jim Gordon
-Wine Enthusiast 94 Points
Lismore Pinot Noir is made from 100 percent Pinot Noir
Complex bouquet of crushed rose petals, wild jasmine and fresh French herbs followed by a palate full of cranberry, raspberry and a long savory finish.
The grapes were picked at optimal ripeness. 30% whole bunch fermented in large 5000 liter vats with gentle pump-overs twice a day. The process allowed for a long extraction period which lends to the fruit expression and structure of this wine. The free run wine was drained off and the fermented grapes were then pressed in a traditional wooden basket press. The wine was racked into 225, 300 and 500 liter barrels where malolactic fermentation took place and the wine was aged for 10 months. 35% new French oak was used.
Review:
"The 2018 Pinot Noir comes from Walker Bay and Kaaimansgat and includes 30% whole-bunch fruit, aged for 11 months in 25% new oak. The bouquet sports vivid red cherry and raspberry fruit that is exceptionally well defined and beautifully integrated with the oak. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, well-judged acidity and a slightly fleshy texture. There is just the right amount of salinity here, and the finish is kept on a tight leash, allowing the detail and precision to be fully expressed. A slight sour edge on the finish keeps you coming back for another sip. Excellent and reassuringly classy. - Neal Martin" - Antonio Galloni's Vinous (November 2019), 92 pts
"Walker Bay and Elandskloof are the twin sources of 30% whole bunch-fermented Pinot from Sam O'Keefe. Juicy, floral and charming, it's a graceful, fruit forward style with some clove and tobacco spice and refreshing acidity. The finish is a little firmer than I remember. 2020-24"- Tim Atkin (South Africa 2020 Special Report), 92 pts
Licenciado Rioja Reserva is made from 100% Tempranillo
This single vineyard wine is always produced from the same vineyard that is also used to make the Gran Reserva wine.
Licenciado shows a ruby red color and outstanding aromas of wild berries, vanilla and spice. The palate is well-balanced, rounded and elegant, and offers black pepper, ripe black fruits and vanilla flavors. Its freshness, oak ageing and high extraction guarantee a longevity of at least 10 years after the year of harvest.
Best enjoyed with red meat and game
Review:
Spicy peppercorns, black cherries, plums and a touch of cocoa powder. Medium-bodied with firm, fine tannins and an extensive finish. Drink now or hold.
-James Suckling 90 Points