Full Breakdown
Maysara Winery: A Journey from Iran to Global Recognition
12/8/2025, 12:29:10 AM
Founding Story and Escape from Iran
Maysara Winery, located in Oregon's wine country, has gained global recognition, ranking as the No. 23 vineyard worldwide. The winery's founder, Moe Momtazi, originally from Iran, escaped the turmoil of the 1979 revolution. He arrived in the United States in 1971 to study engineering but returned to Iran during a time of upheaval. In 1982, with his wife, who was eight months pregnant, he fled Iran, navigating a perilous journey through Pakistan, Spain, Italy, and Mexico before settling in Texas in 1983. Initially applying for political asylum, Momtazi returned to civil engineering but always harbored a dream of farming.
Establishment of Maysara Winery
In 1990, Moe Momtazi transitioned from engineering to pursue his passion for agriculture, moving his family to Oregon. In 1997, the family acquired an abandoned wheat farm, which would become Maysara Winery. The winery is now a family-run operation, with Moe's wife and three daughters actively involved in its management. The property spans approximately 563 acres, characterized by its unique elevation and natural beauty.
Winemaking Philosophy and Practices
Maysara Winery is distinguished by its commitment to biodynamic agriculture, a farming philosophy rooted in the teachings of Rudolf Steiner. Moe Momtazi emphasizes holistic farming practices, avoiding synthetic materials and focusing on natural cycles and soil vitality. This includes unconventional methods, such as burying cow horns filled with manure to enhance soil health. Moe asserts, "We absolutely do not manipulate our wine … no use of commercial yeast or enzymes or adjusting acidity or adding sugar," highlighting a dedication to natural winemaking.
Unique Characteristics of Maysara Wines
The winery's approach results in wines that are aged significantly longer than typical American wines. Naseem Momtazi, Moe's daughter and president of sales, explains that Maysara wines are not released chronologically, which is atypical in the American wine industry. She notes, "We truly believe in holding back the wines and releasing [them] when ready," reflecting a philosophy that prioritizes quality over speed. Customers have remarked that Maysara wines are akin to "medicine," suggesting a perception of health benefits associated with their natural production methods.
Criticism and Broader Implications
Despite the winery's success, there are broader concerns regarding modern food production practices. Naseem Momtazi emphasizes the need for improved production and consumption methods, linking their winemaking philosophy to a larger conversation about sustainability in agriculture. This perspective invites dialogue on the implications of industrialized food systems and the potential benefits of holistic practices.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We were informed we were chosen [to be among] the top 50 vineyards in the world,” — Moe Momtazi, Founder of Maysara Winery
- “NAVY VET-TURNED-WINEMAKER INFUSES MILITARY GRIT INTO POWERHOUSE POURS "It was my mission to farm holistically and just not to use any kind of material from outside," he said.” — Moe Momtazi
- “But if you consume a moderate amount of our wine, I truly do say that you're not going to get the same effects.” — Naseem Momtazi, President of Sales
Maysara Winery's journey from a family's escape from Iran to becoming a globally recognized vineyard exemplifies the intersection of heritage, health, and sustainable agriculture in the modern winemaking landscape.
