Dalla Valle Vineyards : Maya 2023

Characteristics and tasting tips for Maya 2023 from Dalla Valle Vineyards

Tasting

Colour
A red colour.

Nose
The bouquet opens with an aromatic expression that is at once explosive and perfectly controlled, revealing scents of blackberry and blackcurrant, enhanced by delicate floral notes of violet and fresh flowers.

Palate
The palate reveals intense black fruit flavours combined with a minerality reminiscent of wet stone and graphite. Subtle hints of spice run through the mid-palate. The whole is supported by elegant, finely chiselled tannins, leading to a long, powerful and refined finish that strikes a remarkable balance between concentration and finesse.

Food and wine pairing
This great red wine pairs beautifully with flavourful meats such as a grilled rib of beef with a rich reduction sauce, a herb-roasted rack of lamb, or game dishes such as fillet of venison. It will also elevate slow-braised meats, roast poultry or barbecued grills.

Serving and cellaring
To fully appreciate Maya 2023, it is best served at a temperature of around 15.5°C. Decanting it one to two hours before tasting will allow young vintages to reveal their full complexity. Blessed with exceptional ageing potential, this wine will continue to develop gracefully in the cellar for 15 to 30 years.

A great Californian wine combining power and elegance on the volcanic terroir of Dalla Valle Vineyards

The estate
Officially founded in 1986 by Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle Vineyards, the estate covers some twenty acres in the prestigious Napa Valley region, more specifically on the hillsides of Oakville. Today, the estate is run by a mother-and-daughter duo, Naoko and Maya Dalla Valle, who uphold the excellence of what has become a cult label. Farmed with great precision, this small vineyard stands out for its family-driven approach and its commitment to crafting wines of exceptional quality that faithfully reflect the unique identity of their Californian terroir.

The vineyard
Located on the eastern hills of the Oakville appellation in the Napa Valley, the vineyard sits at an altitude of between 120 and 140 metres. The vines thrive on rocky slopes with iron-rich volcanic soils that provide excellent drainage. This Californian terroir enjoys generous sunshine while being cooled by breezes from San Pablo Bay. The estate follows the principles of organic and biodynamic farming, combined with precision viticulture, to preserve soil health and ensure naturally controlled yields.

The wine

Marking the estate's 40th anniversary, this 2023 vintage is the first to be crafted in the estate's newly renovated winery. 

The vintage
The year began with abundant winter rainfall, which replenished the soils' water reserves. This was followed by a mild spring, then a long, temperate summer without excessive heat. These favourable weather conditions extended into an ideal autumn, making for a balanced growing season. This allowed for a slow, unhurried harvest, carried out between 3 and 6 October in pursuit of optimal ripeness.

Vinification and ageing
Maya 2023 marks a historic milestone, as it is the first harvest to be vinified in the estate's fully renovated winery. The wine is aged for 23 months, combining French oak barrels, 75% of which are new, with a period in amphorae. This choice of vessels refines the tannins while preserving freshness, mineral tension and purity of fruit.

Grape varieties
67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc