2023 Dalla Valle Maya

the history of Dalla Valle

Dalla Valle Vineyards, founded in 1986 by Naoko and Gustav Dalla Valle, is one of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley. The estate is situated on the eastern slopes of Oakville, where the vineyards benefit from the ideal combination of altitude, sun exposure, and cooling influences from San Pablo Bay. Today, the mother-daughter team of Naoko and Maya Dalla Valle is at the helm. Maya, trained in Bordeaux, Tuscany, and at top global estates, continues the tradition, together with the team, of wines that combine power and refinement. Dalla Valle quickly became a cult producer and now belongs to the absolute elite of Napa Valley.

the terroir and biodynamic approach

The vineyards are situated on steep, rocky slopes with red, iron-rich soils, known for their low yields and high concentration. This terroir gives the wines their characteristic intensity, structure, and aromatic depth. For several years, the vineyards have been managed entirely biodynamically. This approach, aimed at harmony between nature and the vineyard, enhances the vitality of the vines and the precision of the grape expression. The result is a wine that is both powerful and lively, with a distinct terroir identity.

the harvest year 2022

The 2022 vintage in Napa Valley was marked by extremes, with a dry winter and an intensely hot period during the harvest. Despite these challenges, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes from Dalla Valle yielded remarkably concentrated and aromatically rich fruit. Thanks to the experience and precision of the winemaking team, a wine was created with depth, tension, and great aging potential. The blend consists of 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, giving the wine a unique structure and refinement.

vinification and aging

The grapes are carefully harvested by hand and rigorously selected. Fermentation takes place in small tanks, where extraction is carefully controlled to preserve balance and elegance. Subsequently, the wine ages in French oak barriques, a significant proportion of which are new, for approximately 22 months. This aging process imparts the wine its complex layers, silky texture, and impressive length. The result is a wine that combines power with precision and finesse, and will continue to unfold over the years.

Tasting notes of the 2022 Dalla Valle Maya

The wine opens with an intense bouquet of black cherries, cassis, and blueberries, interwoven with notes of dark chocolate, violets, and subtle mint. Upon aeration, hints of dried spices and graphite emerge. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a tight, taut profile. The tannins are powerful and refined, and the finish is long and mineral-driven. The combination of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon gives Maya 2022 an intriguing balance between ripe fruit, floral elegance, and spicy complexity.

Wine Advocate (96+ points) highlighted the impressive length and the need for further cellar aging, noting that the wine might surpass the estate's Cabernet Sauvignon after aging. James Suckling (97 points) praised the refinement, silky texture, and layering, and advised drinking the wine from 2030 for its full potential.

Order Dalla Valle wines online?

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others.

Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers.

Food and wine pairings with the 2022 Dalla Valle Maya

• Grilled ribeye with herb butter – the powerful tannins and ripe fruit notes pair beautifully with the rich meat.
• Leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic – the herbaceous notes enhance the complex layers of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Venison loin with blackcurrant jus – the intensity of the game is perfectly supported by the deep fruit aromas and spiciness of the wine.
• Risotto with mushrooms and truffle – the earthy flavors find harmony in the mineral depth and elegance of Maya.
• Grilled eggplant and bell pepper with pecorino – the roasted vegetable notes and the savory cheese accentuate the freshness and texture.
• Oxtail stew with cocoa and red wine – the rich sauce and dark meat combine beautifully with the layers of chocolate and spices in the wine.