The 2016 Dalla Valle "Maya" Proprietary Red Wine is one of the most prestigious and legendary cult wines from the Oakville region of Napa Valley, California. This 2016 vintage was exceptionally well-received, earning a perfect 100-point score from the authoritative wine critic The Wine Advocate.
Winery Background
Dalla Valle was founded in 1986 by Gustav and Naoko, and is now run by the mother-daughter duo Naoko and Maya (after whom this flagship wine is named), and is crafted by top winemaker Andy Erickson and internationally renowned winemaking consultant Michel Rolland.
Wine Profile
- Classic blend: A perfect combination of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Cabernet Franc. The old-vine Cabernet Franc imparts an exceptionally captivating array of exotic spice and floral notes.
- Aging process: Carefully aged for 22 months in French oak barrels (approximately 70%–80% new).
- Perfect Climate: The 2016 growing season was near perfect, with ample spring rains and a mild summer, allowing the grapes to exhibit exceptional depth, vibrancy, and exceptionally high natural acidity.
- Extremely Low Yield: Annual production is extremely limited, with only about 500 cases produced each year, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
Tasting Notes
- Taste: Features rich aromas of blackcurrant, dark fruit, floral violet notes, and crushed rock minerality, delivering a silky, deeply complex palate with polished tannins.
- Flavor profile: Notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, cocoa, cinnamon, red tobacco, and a distinctive crumbly minerality. Tannins are silky smooth, the palate unfolds in layers like a symphony, culminating in an exceptionally deep and long finish.
- Drinking Window: This wine possesses remarkable aging potential; critics recommend it can easily age for over 30 years.
