The 2023 Mayacamas Chardonnay from Napa, California, is a white wine that displays both elegance and complexity, as highlighted by several prominent reviewers. This Chardonnay, produced by Mayacamas Vineyards, hails from the North Coast region and presents a fascinating profile that is both restrained and vibrant.
James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 95, describing it as "elegant, concentrated, and fascinating" due to its racy acidity and flavors of mineral, almond, and green apple. He noted its medium-bodied, layered, and linear texture, which is particularly mouthwatering. Suckling suggests the wine will improve with age, recommending to enjoy it best from 2028, although it is drinkable now.
Vinous, with Antonio Galloni providing the review, gave the wine a score of 94. Galloni emphasized the wine's "tremendous phenolic structure and overall depth," noting flavors such as lemon peel, sage, mint, and chamomile. The review highlights its bold character with earthy and mineral notes that make a strong impression on the finish. This Chardonnay spent ten months in barrel before bottling, half of which was in large-format oak, contributing to its robust profile.
Wine Spectator also praised the 2023 Mayacamas Chardonnay, scoring it a 92. The review described the wine as "bold and generous," featuring intense flavors of grilled Meyer lemon, kumquat, and pear. The wine's vibrancy is enhanced by energetic acidity, creating focus and intensity with additional notes of crushed stone, lemon balm, and lemon verbena.
In summary, the 2023 Mayacamas Chardonnay is a compelling wine with a dynamic range of flavors and structures. Its high acidity and mineral characteristics are complemented by a depth that suggests good aging potential, making it a noteworthy choice for wine enthusiasts.