Myriad Cellars: A Winner on Many Levels
Mike and Leah Smith of Myriad Cellars at Harvest Time
I have been buying the wine produced by Mike Smith, winemaker and co-proprietor of Myriad Cellars, since 2008. In most cases, that should be, by itself, a ringing endorsement of his wine.
He honed his craft with one of the finest winemakers in the Napa Valley, Thomas Rivers Brown. Initially, Mike worked with Thomas for free for several crushes (seven to be exact), and ultimately Thomas offered Mike a job. It was in 2006 that Mike was able to purchase grapes and establish his own label with his wife Leah as “copilot.” My first tasting with him was at Carter Cellars where he was established as the winemaker. I was sold on his expertise by then.
The character and quality of the wine stands out. Just recently, we had a tasting hosted by Leah, at Tamber Bey Winery. This is a custom crush facility where they make their wine. It is a lovely setting in Calistoga, CA at the north end of the Napa Valley. We were able to sit outside with a view of Mount St. Helena and taste luscious wine from the 2022 vintage. There were two standouts from this tasting. One being a favorite each vintage – Cabernet Sauvignon from the Dr. Crane Vineyard. Then there was a mystery wine from an unknown vineyard titled Rarefied Air Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a knockout! The mystery is that the source of the grapes is known only to Mike and Leah along with the owner of the vineyard. It could well be an opportunity for the owner of the vineyard to see first-hand what Mike can deliver. I know he or she won’t be disappointed. I wasn’t and bought the offering.
Myriad Cellars produces a wide portfolio of wines: Rosé, Semillon, Syrah, and several different Cabernets from outstanding vineyards in the valley. You won’t be disappointed. Mike delivers wine that is smooth and expressive. His efforts have garnered high praise from several wine critics. In fact, here is a link to a Score Card from Myriad’s website.
The high scores from well-known critics may be overwhelming yet easily reassure you of the quality of the wine. He is devoted to having the wine in the bottle be the expression of the land and the grapes. I highly recommend a tasting with the delightful Leah if you are in the Napa Valley. She will guide you through the lineup with insights and humor. If not, I have no hesitations recommending going on the website and trying some bottles for yourself. It is well worth it.
Enjoy!
Leah Smith
