Dalla Valle Vineyards is recognized as one of Napa Valley’s preeminent family-run wineries. Founded in 1986 by Naoko Dalla Valle and her late husband Gustav Dalla Valle on the famed eastern hillsides of Oakville, Dalla Valle Vineyards has earned acclaim as one of world’s most celebrated wine estates, yielding wines of extraordinary character and complexity, vintage after vintage. Today, daughter Maya is continuing her parents’ stewardship of the estate as Winemaker while also forging her own legacy as an industry leader. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each bottle reflects the dedication and passion that go into the winemaking process.
Before joining the family business, Maya was committed to earning her place. She earned her first degree in viticulture and enology from Cornell and a second in vineyard and winery management from Bordeaux’s Science Agro University. Training with the best, Maya also gained hands-on winemaking experience at Ornellaia e Masseto, Bodegas Rolland, Pétrus, and Château Latour. Maya returned home as Director of the estate in 2017 and was named the estate’s Winemaker in 2021, where she continues to sustain Dalla Valle’s cult status with forward-thinking ideas and a commitment to excellence.
One of just a few second-generation female winemakers leading the Napa Valley into its next phase, Maya blends innovation with tradition, a reflection of Dalla Valle Vineyard’s rich history and her bold vision for the future. Inspiring innovation and bringing her own energy and experience, Maya is catapulting Dalla Valle into the future of fine wine by spearheading initiatives to make Dalla Valle more eco-friendly, implementing biodynamic practices that not only respect the land but ensure a legacy that future generations can be proud of.
Portfolio Highlights:
2021 Maya ($500): A full-circle moment in Maya Dalla Valle’s career as the first vintage she crafted of her namesake wine, the 2021 Maya demonstrates the elegant power of Cabernet Sauvignon coupled with the delicate aromatics of Cabernet Franc. After 24 months of aging, the 2021 vintage wines capture the intensity, purity, and resilience of the vines.
2021 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon ($275): Dalla Valle’s first vintage, produced in 1986, established this wine as an instant Napa Valley classic. Select Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with a small percentage of Cabernet Franc and aged in no greater than 60% new French oak. For close to three decades, this standard-bearer has consistently shown impressive structure and velvety berry flavors.
2021 Collina Dalla Valle ($120): Blended primarily from the fruit of the estate’s younger vines, Collina, which means “hill” in Italian, is intended to be enjoyed upon release – although, like all Dalla Valle wines, it will continue to evolve for a decade or longer. A wine that delivers on quality while offering a fresh new perspective on what luxury Napa Valley wine can be, the Collina 2021 is a product of the Dalla Valle’s commitment to genuine craftsmanship and the strength of its terroir. Showcasing a vibrant acidity that harmonizes the rich fruit profile and adds a layer of freshness, the garnet-hued wine is brilliantly balanced with 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Petite Verdot.
: @MAGRINOPR