Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Region and Vineyards

The Oakville region in Napa Valley is renowned for producing some of the world's most celebrated wines. Nestled at an elevation of approximately 150 meters above sea level, the Dalla Valle estate benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by warm days and cool nights, essential for the slow and balanced ripening of grapes. The soils in this region are predominantly volcanic, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the concentration and complexity of the wines.

The vineyards of Dalla Valle are meticulously managed, with a focus on sustainable viticulture practices. The estate's location on the eastern slopes of Oakville ensures optimal sun exposure, while the cooling breezes from the San Pablo Bay provide a natural balance, preserving acidity and enhancing the aromatic profile of the grapes. These conditions are ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant varietal in this blend, alongside Cabernet Franc and a touch of Petit Verdot.

Winemaking

This vintage at Dalla Valle was marked by an extended growing season, allowing for a slow and even development of flavors and phenolics. The wine is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, sourced from some of the best blocks of the estate vineyard. After careful hand-harvesting and selection, the grapes underwent a gentle crushing and fermentation process.

Aging took place over 22 months in French oak barrels, with two-thirds being new. This careful barrel regimen imparts a rich, velvety texture to the wine, while enhancing its complexity and depth. The oak aging also contributes subtle notes of spice and vanilla, complementing the intense fruit character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep, opaque garnet with a radiant purple rim.
• Aroma: The nose opens with an enticing bouquet of fresh berries, cassis, and dark cherries, intertwined with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of smoky oak.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and layered, revealing flavors of ripe blackberries, plum, and cassis. Undertones of dried herbs, soil, and smoked meat add complexity. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a firm yet silky structure, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Did you know?

Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded by Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle in 1982 and quickly became one of the most prestigious estates in Napa Valley. The estate is particularly famous for its cult wine, "Maya," named after their daughter.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Beef Wellington: The richness of the beef and the earthy flavors of the mushroom duxelles complement the wine’s depth and tannic structure.
• Roast Lamb with Rosemary: The savory notes of the lamb and the herbaceous rosemary enhance the wine's complex layers of flavor.
• Aged Gouda: The nutty and caramelized profile of aged Gouda pairs beautifully with the wine’s fruit intensity and smooth texture

History of Dalla Valle Vineyards

Founded in 1986 by Naoko and Gustav Dalla Valle, the estate quickly gained recognition for its powerful, complex wines. The Dalla Valle family’s journey into winemaking began as a shared dream that Gustav and Naoko brought to life in the Oakville hills. Sadly, after Gustav’s untimely passing, Naoko took over the management of the estate, passionately building on their vision and refining the vineyard’s identity with every vintage.

The estate’s iconic wine, Maya, named after Naoko and Gustav's daughter, exemplifies the commitment to quality and terroir-driven expression that defines Dalla Valle. Today, Naoko and Maya work together to carry the family’s legacy forward, focusing on biodynamic and organic practices that respect the land and enhance the vineyard’s vitality.

Region and Vineyards

Situated on the eastern slopes of Napa Valley’s Oakville AVA, Dalla Valle’s 21-acre estate benefits from an optimal Mediterranean climate and unique, iron-rich volcanic soils. These conditions are ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the primary varietals that thrive in the vineyard’s rocky, well-draining soils. The vineyard’s elevated location provides ample sunlight and cooling breezes, balancing the ripeness and acidity of the fruit.

Since transitioning to biodynamic farming practices, the vineyard has become a model for sustainable viticulture in the region. Each block of vines is carefully managed, with hand-harvesting and meticulous vine care that enhances the quality of the grapes. These practices result in wines with exceptional concentration, minerality, and a distinct sense of place.

Wine Range

Dalla Valle Vineyards is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Collina, and Maya wines:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: A structured, age-worthy wine with rich, dark fruit, minerality, and polished tannins, embodying the power and elegance of Napa Valley Cabernet.
• Collina: An approachable, youthful red blend showcasing floral, dark fruit, and spice characteristics from the estate’s younger vines.
• Maya: The flagship wine and one of Napa’s most acclaimed blends, Maya combines Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from the finest blocks. It is a highly structured, complex wine with extraordinary aging potential and is considered a collector’s wine for its rarity and reputation.

Did you know?

Dalla Valle’s Maya was one of the first California wines to earn a perfect score from renowned wine critics. This achievement highlighted the estate’s dedication to excellence and put Dalla Valle on the global map as a leader in premium wine production.