Maysara Cyrus Pinot Noir
WHY WE LOVE IT
- The grapes for Cyrus are grown biodynamically on Momtazi Vineyard in the McMinnville AVA.
- The Momtazi family believes in holding vintages until the wine is fully evolved, rather than releasing chronologically. Each vintage is unique and should mature on its own timeline.
- Cyrus shows more tertiary notes than the other top-tier Maysara releases, and sees a bit more new barrel as well.
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Elaboration: 100% Native yeast fermentation and malolactic Aged 18 months in French oak barrels (30% New / 70% Neutral) Filtered, no fining.
Tasting Notes: Elegant and playful, Cyrus opens the door with cranberry and red plum skin, followed by a lusher black cherry note, inviting you in. Fresh soil and wet slate point to the garden out back, while a hint of black tea and spice begs for the warmth of company to stay for a while.
PRESS
2013 – 94 James Suckling | 93 Wine & Spirit
2014 – 92 Vinous
2015 – 94 Jeb Dunnuck | 92 Wine Enthusiast | 91 Wine Advocate
2016 – 91+ Wine Advocate
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Moe and Flora Momtazi immigrated to the U.S. from Iran in the 1980s and, on April 1, 1997, purchased what is now the 532-acre Momtazi Vineyard and Maysara Winery. It is located in McMinnville, Oregon, in the McMinnville AVA, about 50 miles southwest of Portland. Their three daughters are all heavily involved in running the operation as winemaker, head of sales, and event manager.
Back in Iran, Moe had learned the value of organic farming and respect for the earth from his grandfather. Those principles remain vital to all aspects of the winemaking process at Maysara. They believe 90 percent of winemaking takes place in the vineyard. They use Demeter Certified Biodynamic winemaking methods, which are low-impact, holistic farming techniques and vineyard management practices. They never use chemicals and employ a holistic approach to vineyard management by growing a variety of medicinal and dynamic flowers and herbs that they make into compost teas.