1989 Dalla Valle "Maya" is a top-tier cult wine produced on the eastern slopes of Oakville in Napa Valley, California. This wine is the winery's flagship wine and is named after Maya, the daughter of founders Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle.
Wine Profile
- Region: Oakville, eastern slopes of Napa Valley, California, USA.
- Varietal Composition: Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc (the 1989 vintage is notable for its reversed ratio, using 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Cabernet Franc, or a variant reportedly 55/45).
- Winemaker at the time: Legendary winemaker Heidi Barrett (who oversaw the winery from 1988 to 1995; the famous Screaming Eagle is also her creation).
- Winemaking Process: Fermentation using indigenous yeasts, without clarification or filtration.
Tasting Note
Although 1989 wasn't widely considered a superb vintage in Napa Valley (harvest was disrupted by rain, but the winery completed the harvest before the rains), this wine displayed remarkably impressive strength:
- Its color is deep and intense, exhibiting astonishing power and richness.
- The aromas and palate reveal layers of plum, black cherry, violet, clove, leather, mint, and dark chocolate. The tannins are fine yet firm, indicating excellent aging potential.
- Drinking window: Possesses exceptional aging potential and is currently in its "golden drinking window," a period of perfect balance between aroma and sensory experience.
- Rating: Vinous (Antonio Galloni), a reputable wine review organization, gave it 96/100 points.
