Mayacamas, the historic Napa vineyard and winery, has been purchased by former Screaming Eagle owner Charles Banks.
Banks will ‘stay true to legacy’
Banks and business partner Jay Schottenstein have bought the Mount Veeder winery from owner Robert Travers for an undisclosed price.
Banks said he has been eyeing the property for a few years now. ‘I first met with Bob Travers back in 2008 and declared my interest,’ he said, adding that he had ambitious plans for the property.
‘We have a 10-year replanting schedule, and would like to keep the healthy old vines as long as possible. We will dry farm and be moving to organic over time.
Husband and wife team Andy Erickson (formerly of Screaming Eagle) and Annie Favia will make the wines and will oversee the vineyards.
Banks said he would ‘make sure we stay true to the style of Mayacamas and Bob Travers’ legacy.
There are also plans to refurbish the original winery, built in 1889.
The 21ha vineyard is considered one of best sources of Bordeaux varieties in California.
The winery came to fame when it was chosen for the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, and was rated alongside Heitz Wine Cellars in replays of the Tastings in 1986 and 2006.
Written by Louis Villard
