Dalla Valle Vineyards : Maya 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for the 2023 Maya from Dalla Valle Vineyards

Tasting Notes

Appearance
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 aromas of black fruits 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 flavourful meats such as grilled rib of beef with a reduction sauce, roast rack of lamb with herbs, or game dishes like venison fillet. It will also enhance long-braised meats, roast poultry or barbecued grills.

Serving and Cellaring
To fully appreciate the 2023 Maya, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature of around 15.5°C. Decanting for one to two hours before tasting will allow young vintages to release their full complexity. With exceptional ageing potential, this wine can develop favourably 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 spans some 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 cult 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 benefits from abundant sunshine while being cooled by breezes from San Pablo Bay. The estate applies the principles of organic farming and biodynamics, 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 domaine's newly renovated winery. 

The Vintage
The year began with abundant winter rainfall, which helped replenish 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, resulting in a balanced growing cycle. This allowed for a slow and peaceful harvest, carried out between 3 and 6 October, in search of optimal ripeness.

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

Grape Varieties
67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc