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Tasting notes
Rich, ripe and explosive, the 2002 Maya emerges from the glass with layers of dark, voluptuous fruit. There is plenty going on in the glass, although today the 2002 isn't as expressive as it was when I last tasted it, about two years ago. Dark raspberry jam, cloves, mint and flowers are layered into the finish with substantial weight and silkiness. (AG)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
As stunning as this basic Cabernet Sauvignon is, the 2002 Maya, a proprietary blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Cabernet Franc, is pure perfection. It boasts an inky purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of incense, black fruits, charcoal and forest floor. Full-bodied, with monumental intensity, a multidimensional texture/mouthfeel, and a stunning finish, this beauty reveals the brilliant quality of the Dalla Valle Cabernet Franc plantings meshed with their powerful Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+. Despite the fact that I have given Dalla Valle’s wines fabulous reviews over the last 20 years, looking back, I seriously underrated the 2002s seven years ago. Both of these cuvees are among the superstars of this tasting. Their youthfulness, combined with their undeniable complexity and richness, is provocative. Tel. (707) 944-2676; Fax (707) 944-8411
(a 55/45 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc) Good ruby-red. Blueberry, licorice, violet and leather on the perfumed nose. Supple on entry, then sweeter, broader and lusher than the 2002 cabernet, with lovely depth of flavor. Bright and nicely delineated. Finishes with huge, building, horizontal tannins that dust the palate and front teeth and are distinctly finer than those of the basic cabernet bottling, which seems a bit green and dry by comparison. This wine needs several years of patience and should be long-lived.
About the producer
Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded in 1986 by Naoko and her late husband Gustav Dalla Valle, in Oakville. Initially they had wanted to create a luxury resort, but when they discovered the potential of the site, they changed tack and decided to make wine.