Myriad (2022-2023)
About Myriad:
Myriad Cellars is a boutique winery in Napa Valley, known for crafting exceptional, small-production wines, particularly focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon from some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards. Founded by winemaker Mike Smith, who gained experience working with top Napa Valley producers, Myriad Cellars has earned a strong reputation for producing bold, expressive wines that showcase the unique terroir of Napa. The winery sources grapes from renowned vineyards in Oakville, St. Helena and Rutherford, ensuring the highest quality fruit for their wines. Myriad’s portfolio includes rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons, as well as elegant Syrahs and other varietals, all made with meticulous attention to detail. Smith’s winemaking style emphasizes purity of fruit, balance, and a sense of place, making Myriad Cellars a favorite among collectors and Napa Valley enthusiasts alike.
Winemaker Mike Smith
Mike Smith is a renowned Napa Valley winemaker celebrated for his meticulous, small-lot, handcrafted wines. Originally from Oregon, Mike transitioned from a career in the hospitality industry to winemaking after moving to California, where he began as an assistant to Thomas Rivers Brown. Gaining expertise in crafting high-quality wines, Mike eventually founded Myriad Cellars in 2005, focusing on producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. Known for his hands-on approach and dedication to showcasing vineyard-specific characteristics, Mike works with some of Napa’s top vineyards, including Beckstoffer Dr. Crane and Georges III. His wines are acclaimed for their bold yet balanced profiles, showcasing both power and elegance.
Mike Smith’s journey into winemaking is a true testament to passion and perseverance. Starting as a self-taught winemaker, he gained invaluable experience working under the guidance of Thomas Rivers Brown, one of Napa Valley’s most influential winemakers. This mentorship honed Mike’s ability to craft expressive, site-driven wines. His own label, Myriad Cellars, has since become a standout in Napa Valley, producing wines that emphasize purity, balance, and the unique qualities of each vineyard.
Beyond Myriad Cellars, Mike also oversees several other labels, including Quivet Cellars, Perchance and Scarlett Wines each offering a distinct expression of Napa terroirs. He is especially known for his work with coveted vineyards like Beckstoffer’s Dr. Crane and Las Piedras, producing Cabernet Sauvignons that consistently earn high praise for their richness, complexity, and seamless texture. Winemakers and enthusiasts alike respect Mike for his down-to-earth nature and commitment to quality over quantity, making him a beloved figure in the wine community.
In this report we focus on the 2022 releases as well as the 2023’s from barrel, which include Cabernet Sauvignon as well as two new wines the debuts of Element Zero, the 2022 Beckstoffer Los Amigas Merlot and the ‘Rarefied Air’ White Wine composed of Old Vine Sauvignon Blanc & Semillon from Beckstoffer Melrose Vineyard.