Country: | United States |
Regions: | Oregon Oregon (Willamette) |
Winery: | Maysara Winery |
Grape Type: | Pinot Blanc |
Organic: | Yes |
Vintage: | 2023 |
Bottle Size: | 750 ml |
Maysara Autees Pinot Blanc is made from 100 percent Pinot Blanc
No oak
Autees is the ancient Persian Goddess that protects all plants, animals and trees on Earth. She is the protector of life and all things that grow.
A slightly richer episode of Pinot Blanc, tending towards monologues of ripe apricot and even lychee.
Act I is entitled: ‘Floral scents in the nose are pure honeysuckle alight on a cool breeze…’ Then the grizzled director cuts to a shock of acidity that beckons you back again.
Act II opens with a playful back-and-forth of the mineral laden mid-palate and a lilting tune of a green grass finish.
Act III is seldom noticed over your mile-wide smile.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Stellar with the firmer cheeses, fresh, ripe fruit and subtly herbed seafood.
Maysara winery is nestled in the foothills of the McMinnville AVA, in Oregon's Willamette Valley. The Momtazi family is dedicated to biodynamic farming practices. What makes Maysara unique is that there is over 600 feet elevation gain in the vineyards. From the property's lowest point at 120 feet to around 600 feet, the soil is clay and loam based (similar to most of the valley). From 600-780 feet, there is Jory soil (a red earth loaded with iron and mineral deposits). Quite a bit of the McMinnville AVA has this top soil. What makes this part of Maysara's vineyard special is that there's 10 feet of this earth before the base of loam and calcareous sub-soil.
Maysara Wines reflect this commitment to terroir, showing a purity of fruit and earth, that are true to the soils from which they come.
On April 1st, 1997, Moe and Flora Momtazi bought 496 (of the now 532) acres of abandoned wheat farm just south of their home in McMinnville, Oregon. Though wild and untouched, Moe’s vision for the Momtazi Estate was born looking out across the thriving hills of land that had been free of chemicals for seven years.
Though using chemicals would have been faster and more economical while building infrastructure and reclaiming the land, not a single one has or will be used throughout the estate. Instead, the ground was turned over multiple times during the summer of 1997 in order to eliminate unwanted plants and weeds while returning the soil to a usable state.
They began planting in March of 1998, with 13 acres of self-rooted pommard pinot noir vines. After months of researching the relationships between specific pinot noir clones, rootstocks and the different soil types found across the estate, over 120,000 plants were grafted in the greenhouses and planted in the vineyard by the end of the summer in 1999.
They believe that 90% of winemaking takes place in the vineyard. Because of this, they have held themselves to a strict form of land use acting as stewards of the land in order to nurture and reap the rewards naturally. Their alternative approach to chemical use is growing a variety of medicinal and dynamic flowers and herbs that they make into compost teas. By steeping into teas, they’re able to harness the beneficial properties of each flower and herb and embody a “from nature to nature” philosophy. As such, their multiple compost piles and Biodynamic preparations are extremely important for their vineyards because the resulting humus is worked into their vineyard in order to achieve long-term soil and vine health.
Their unique niche in the foothills of Oregon’s Coast Range separates them from valley weather influences providing warmer days and cooler nights with less precipitation during the harvest season. The property has highly diversified soil types consisting primarily of Nekia and Yamhill series, laced with veins of Peavine and Jory. By training their vines to produce between 1.75-2.25 tons per acre, they believe they are getting the best fruit possible from their unique terroir.
BIODYNAMICS
Biodynamics is an ultra-organic way of farming stemming from the two words; biological and dynamic. The biological aspect is practiced throughout organic farming and includes; composting, cover cropping, green manuring, cultivation, companion planting and integration of animals throughout the farm. The dynamic effects are extremely important, maybe even more-so than the biological. They include planning and planting by a calendar (i.e. near and far stars), Biodynamic composting, peppering and radionics, along with homeopathy. Therefore, both the biological & the dynamic effects are practiced and implemented.
In Biodynamics the farm is considered a living organism — having its own individuality and soul. As such the farm is believed to be sick if it imports any fertilizer from the outside; therefore being self sufficient is an important part of Biodynamic farming. Soil is considered to be the foundation of agriculture, therefore enriching the soil is an important task. A farmer is comparable to the conductor of an orchestra — bringing all the individual forces and energies into harmony by playing the right notes at the right time.
We distribute our own compost, inoculated with the Biodynamic preparations and distribute it underneath the vines as needed. We have also eliminated the use of minerals which need to be mined from the earth. Instead, we grow a variety of herbs and flowers that have been used medicinally for thousands of years (i.e. Chamomile, Dandelion, Yarrow, Valerian, Horsetail, Stinging Nettle, etc.). We make teas with them to be sprayed either on the foliage (on leaf days) or injected through the irrigation line to the root system (on root days). We apply these teas in homeopathic amounts in order to maintain the vitality and healthy immune system of the plants. Plants do not need to be shocked with penicillin like treatments if they are “brought up” with healthy immunities to pests and diseases.
In the winery, we allow the native yeast found on the grape skins to naturally initiate primary fermentation. No commercial yeast or enzyme use is allowed and we do not adjust acidity or add sugar. The secondary or malolactic fermentation also occurs on its own without any additives.
MCMINNVILLE AVA
The McMinnville American Viticultural Area is a sub-appellation of the Willamette Valley, nestled in the Coast Range foothills of Yamhill County that was created in 2005 after a successful petition that began in 2002. The soils found in the McMinnville AVA are primarily made up of both sedimentary and volcanic soils such as loams and silts with an underlying base of basalt. Beneath an average of 20-40 inches of clay and soil, lies hard stone mixed with basalt pebbles and compressed sediment that gives off minerality. It’s this unique soil diversity and the location at the mouth of the Van Duzer corridor that gives the McMinnville Pinot Noirs their dark fruit flavors and spicy earth tones, while allowing whites like Pinot Gris, Blanc and Riesling to attain a bright fruit-forwardness and vibrant acidity.
Maysara Autees Pinot Blanc is made from 100 percent Pinot Blanc
No oak
Autees is the ancient Persian Goddess that protects all plants, animals and trees on Earth. She is the protector of life and all things that grow.
A slightly richer episode of Pinot Blanc, tending towards monologues of ripe apricot and even lychee.
Act I is entitled: ‘Floral scents in the nose are pure honeysuckle alight on a cool breeze…’ Then the grizzled director cuts to a shock of acidity that beckons you back again.
Act II opens with a playful back-and-forth of the mineral laden mid-palate and a lilting tune of a green grass finish.
Act III is seldom noticed over your mile-wide smile.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Stellar with the firmer cheeses, fresh, ripe fruit and subtly herbed seafood.
Maysara Autees Pinot Blanc is made from 100 percent Pinot Blanc
No oak
Autees is the ancient Persian Goddess that protects all plants, animals and trees on Earth. She is the protector of life and all things that grow.
A slightly richer episode of Pinot Blanc, tending towards monologues of ripe apricot and even lychee.
Act I is entitled: ‘Floral scents in the nose are pure honeysuckle alight on a cool breeze…’ Then the grizzled director cuts to a shock of acidity that beckons you back again.
Act II opens with a playful back-and-forth of the mineral laden mid-palate and a lilting tune of a green grass finish.
Act III is seldom noticed over your mile-wide smile.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Stellar with the firmer cheeses, fresh, ripe fruit and subtly herbed seafood.
Maysara Autees Pinot Blanc is made from 100 percent Pinot Blanc
No oak
Autees is the ancient Persian Goddess that protects all plants, animals and trees on Earth. She is the protector of life and all things that grow.
A slightly richer episode of Pinot Blanc, tending towards monologues of ripe apricot and even lychee.
Act I is entitled: ‘Floral scents in the nose are pure honeysuckle alight on a cool breeze…’ Then the grizzled director cuts to a shock of acidity that beckons you back again.
Act II opens with a playful back-and-forth of the mineral laden mid-palate and a lilting tune of a green grass finish.
Act III is seldom noticed over your mile-wide smile.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Stellar with the firmer cheeses, fresh, ripe fruit and subtly herbed seafood.
Maysara Arsheen Pinot Gris is made from 100 percent Pinot Gris.
No oak
Arsheen was an Archeamenian Princess during the 500 B.C. Era. She taught Astronomy and was granted the role of winemaker in the palace due to her impeccable palate and knowledge.
A bright expression of fruit right up front, allowing you to mingle and recline in a shaded garden on a sunny day. The wine floats atop a delicate hint of salinity that will reward pairings of shellfish and citrus based preparations. Arsheen has a smart, refreshing character that will bestow clarity and a ready-set-go!
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Starting gunshot to any coursed meal, or even as a cocktail… try as a Bianco, with campari, lemon, ice and a splash of soda…
Maysara 3 Degrees Pinot Noir is 100 percent Pinot Noir
Aged 11 months in neutral French oak barrels
3° (Three Degrees) Pinot Noir is handcrafted by the Momtazi sisters whose differing personalities; combined with elegance, finesse and balance, reflect the dynamic characteristics of the Momtazi Vineyard. The sisters, Tahmiene, Naseem and Hanna, set out to make a pinot that tastes great and has the highest quality fruit all while being affordable for everyone.
Intriguing notes of fresh earth, oak leaves and pepper are woven together in the initial impression. Lifted, verdant tannins give this wine a firm structure for the vintage to showcase its characteristic starry-eyed smile.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Momtazi Vineyard.
A vibrant and snappy pinot that will shine and refresh when paired with curries, spetzatinas and rich stews.
Maysara Asha Pinot Noir is made from 100 percent Pinot Noir
22 months in 40% new French oak barrel
Asha is an ancient Persian Word describing one who has a clean conscience for good thoughts, words, and deeds with a pure demeanor and performance.
A bejeweled glassful of garnets, Asha snakes onto your palate with amarena cherries, clove and a tantalizing whisp of … what is that? A distant campfire? Elegant and slippery tannins sway to a tune played upon vanilla violins.
At Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyard, we are committed to cap-turing the complete expression of our land and conveying it to you through superior quality in every bottle. We practice only low-impact, holistic farming methods in our Demeter Certified Biodynamic Vineyard. We are confident these practices are the best way to capture the true essence of the soil in our fruit and ensure health of our vines and the unique accent of our terroir for generations. This philosophy is carried into the cellar, where Demeter Certified Biodynamic wine-making practices produce wines with intensity, sophistication and elegance while maintaining a purity of both fruit and earth.
Pair with dishes that utilize slow braised meats, something with complex layers of spices and caramelization, as the mid-palate is ensorcelled with lively acidity and don't forget those tannins!
All older vintage wines have been purchased from a single collectors cellar. Pictures can be requested before shipment.
Opulent floral top notes carry you into an opaque purple core, imparting aromas of black currants, dark red cherry coulis, cigar box, and allspice berries. Powerful yet soft tannins are balanced with a delightful freshness of acidity. The palate is silky with nuanced flavors of cassis, ripe blackberry, and Morello cherry. The long finish invites you to discover the wine’s evolving layers.
Review:
This is, as usual, a beauty, perhaps more so thanks to a great vintage. It is classically Napa Valley, and classically “house styled” by Aron Weinkauf, with black and blue fruit, supple, approachable tannin structure and great depth of aroma and flavor. That said, keep in mind that this isn’t the winery flagship offering. Even in this price range Lyndenhurst is always a solid value, and is so again – maybe even a little more than usual. Decant well if you crack into this in the near term, or age it for the long term. Contains 10.6% Merlot, 3.8% Petit Verdot, 3.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.9% Malbec. (Rich Cook)
- Wine Review Online 95 Points
A juicy red with black currants and balsamic. Bark and mushroom. Iodine, too. Medium body, creamy texture that tightens at the end. An energy and firmness in the finish.
-James Suckling 94 Points