The 2007 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon was the winning bottle in the October Installment of Pick My Next Bottle. I did not decant the wine and it was served with a delicious Pot Roast.
Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded in 1986 by Gustav and Naoko Dalla Valle, who purchased 21 acres on the east side of Silverado Trail on Oakville Hill. They planted the vineyards to Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc and had their first crush in 1986. Dalla Valle produces a Cabernet Sauvignon and a very limited amount of a proprietary red named Maya, after the couple’s daughter. Maya usually contains 45-55% Cabernet Franc, and Robert Parker has written that the finest Cabernet Franc in “the New World is from Dalla Valle’s vineyard.” Though Gustav Dalla Valle died in 1995, Naoko has continued to run the winery.
Purple in color. 14.6% ABV. Sensational nose of blue and black fruits, molten licorice and violets. Rich and plus with amazing texture. Notable concentration, power and balance. Black raspberry, blueberry, cassis liqueur and dark chocolate on the palate. The finish is long with prominent silky tannins. Napa Valley at its best. Breathtaking Cabernet Sauvignon that will drink well for another 3-5 years. I’ll check in on my last bottle in 2027.
My rating: 97 points.
Dalla Valle wines are only available via the mailing list. The 2021 Dalla Valle should be released early next year at about $200.