Dalla Valle Vineyards : Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

The structure and deliciousness of a fine Californian wine

The estate

Since its creation in 1982, Dalla Valle Vineyards has become an essential reference among the finest wines of Napa Valley, California.

That year, Naoko and Gustav Dalla Valle, originally from Japan and Italy respectively, moved to the Oakville Hills wine region with the ambition of producing wines that would magnify the west-facing, hillside terroir, and produced their first vintage in 1986. Oenologist Maya Dalla Valle, after many years of experience at prestigious international estates, joined her mother at the helm of the estate in 2017.

Working with a team that includes the famous winemaker Edgar Alfaro and consulting oenologist Michel Rolland, mother and daughter produce wines that are renowned beyond borders for their character and aromatic complexity.

The vineyard

Dalla Valle Vineyards reigns over a vineyard of around 8 hectares which, due to its proximity to the Bay of San Pablo, benefits from the refreshing influence of the sea breezes as well as from the strong sunshine.

The vineyard, which has been farmed organically since 2007 and biodynamically since 2019, is divided into an array of plots of land planted on mineral-rich volcanic soils that guarantee excellent drainage. Each of these parcels contributes to the signature style of the wines of this great Californian estate.

The vintage

The winter was marked by heavy rainfall, followed by a dry spring. The year was punctuated by several heatwaves which favoured the development of the vineyard. The harvested grapes are concentrated and have a good balance between acidity and tannins.

Vinification and ageing

This wine is aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, 60% of which are new.

The blend

This Dalla Valle Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 by Dalla Valle Vineyards: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The wine's colour is seductive and bright.

Nose

Full and expressive, with red cherry, bramble, freshly baked bread and Asian spices on the nose.

Palate

Generous and lively, the palate is seduced by this wine’s aromatic richness and its tannic structure combining finesse and power, a guarantee of a promising ageing potential.

Cellaring

Enjoy today, this wine will develop a rich and complex aromatic palette as it ages.