Dalla Valle Vineyards : Maya 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Notes of Maya 2023 by Dalla Valle Vineyards

Tasting Notes

Colour
A deep red colour.

Nose
The bouquet opens with an aromatic expression that is both 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 aromas combined with a minerality reminiscent of wet stone and graphite. The mid-palate is crossed by subtle touches of spice. The whole is supported by elegant, finely chiselled tannins, leading to a long, powerful and refined finish, offering a remarkable balance between concentration and finesse.

Food and Wine Pairing
This great red wine pairs wonderfully with savoury meats such as grilled rib of beef with a reduction sauce, roasted herb-crusted rack of lamb, or game dishes like venison fillet. It will also beautifully complement slow-braised meats, roasted poultry or barbecued grills.

Serving and Cellaring
To fully appreciate the Maya 2023, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature of around 15.5°C. Decanting for one to two hours before tasting will allow younger vintages to fully release their complexity. With exceptional ageing potential, this wine can evolve favourably in the cellar for 15 to 30 years.

A Great California 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 spans around twenty acres in the prestigious region of Napa Valley, more precisely on the hillsides of Oakville. Today, the estate is led by a mother-daughter duo, Naoko and Maya Dalla Valle, who continue to uphold the excellence of this now-iconic brand. Cultivated with great precision, this small-scale vineyard stands out for its family-run approach and its commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality, faithfully reflecting the unique identity of their Californian terroir.

The Vineyard
Located on the eastern hills of the Oakville appellation in Napa Valley, the vineyard rises to an altitude of between 120 and 140 metres. The vines thrive on rocky slopes with iron-rich volcanic soils, providing excellent drainage. This Californian terroir enjoys abundant sunshine while being cooled by breezes from San Pablo Bay. The estate applies 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 domain's newly renovated winery. 

The Vintage
The year began with abundant winter rains that replenished the soil's water reserves. This was followed by a mild spring, then a long, temperate summer without excessive heat. These favourable weather conditions continued into an ideal autumn, offering a balanced growing cycle. This allowed for a slow and serene harvest, carried out between 3 and 6 October, in pursuit of optimal ripeness.

Winemaking and Ageing
The Maya 2023 marks a historic milestone, being the first harvest vinified in the estate's fully renovated winery. Ageing takes place over 23 months, combining the use of French oak barrels, 75% of which are new, with a period in amphorae. This choice of containers allows the tannins to soften while preserving freshness, mineral tension and the purity of the fruit.

Grape Varieties
67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc