“Maayan Koschitzky has been making a lot of high-profile wine.” – Robb Report

Helllooo! Strala la, la, la la la!

Seinfeld reference, anyone? In case that didn’t register, here’s something a little more concrete: SB score of the year

Of the century? We have yet to see.

Because Mayaan’s high profile SB list includes Lail Sauvignon Blanc at $175. And Dana Estates Sauvignon Blanc? $300+ if you can find any. Oh, then there’s this not-so-under-the-radar winery, rhymes with Dreaming Beagle, where he also worked. And that Sauvignon Blanc starts at $2,200. Some vintages soar over $5,000.

Clearly an affordable Mayaan Sauvignon Blanc doesn’t exi… wait, WHAT?!

HOLD UP. Run the numbers again. Yep, under $30 for this “fabulously expressive” Savvy B made by MK. With 94-points it’ll run you $70 at the winery. Yet we coerced it below $30. At almost 60% off, it easily shadows much pricier SBs from the Valley.

The Crystal Springs Vineyard in the heart of St. Helena is no ordinary site, to begin with. Salvestrin, Dana Estate, and Mark Herold frequent the prized fruit here. It’s situated in the northeastern foothills of the Vaca Range, nestled just below Howell Mountain. We won’t even mention the names in this neighborhood, at the risk of distracting you from what’s in the glass.

Polished from head to toe as expected from Maayan, with vibrant minerality carrying seamlessly from the first whiff to the last sip. Stunning layers of nectarine, Meyer lemon, spring blossoms, honeysuckle, with nuances of lime zest and honeydew, all rounding out the medium-bodied mouthfeel. The perfumed lift carries a long, silky finish that goes on for miles. A long and cold native yeast fermentation is evident here, giving the wine the textural upper hand to pair with rich fare, or it’s the kind of SB that could make a meal of its own with summery passed hors d’oeuvres. The choice is yours.

Proprietors Jason and Laura Ray happen to be a power couple in the wine business. Jason is the founder of Napa Select Vineyard Services, “one of the region’s most respected vineyard management companies, overseeing more than 1,500 acres across Napa Valley and Sonoma’s most distinguished vineyards.” Imagine the pick he gets from a cherry vineyard like Crystal Springs! Laura Ray is a Master Sommelier, and that too has a lot to do with how good this wine is. Don’t regret not buying enough.

One more thing. Not much is made, which is unfortunate, so you know what to do.

94 Points – Decanter “The Strala Sauvignon Blanc is fabulously expressive with great energy, drive, and tension, and layers of citrus, orchard, and stone fruit, wrapped in a pleasant blanket of oak spices, coming out as vanilla and slivered almonds, with lemony-bright acidity, white flowers, sea salt, and sea grass on the savory finish. Strala Vineyards is owned by Jason Ray, who is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley. Maayan Koschitzky makes the wines. Drink 2026-2034.”