2018 Dalla Valle MDV
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Tasting notes
The first time I’ve tasted this cuvée, which is only made in top years, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon MDV is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Maya’s Block and there are a scant five barrels produced. The cuvée was first made in 1999 as an auction lot, and since then they’ve produced the wine in 2013, 2016, and now 2018. Pure magic in every way, its vivid purple/blue color is followed by an incredible, Pauillac-like perfume of blackcurrants, lead pencil-shavings, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth, with more floral and spice notes developing with time in the glass. Full-bodied and flawlessly balanced, with a rare mix of power and elegance, it needs 4-5 years of bottle age and is going to evolve for 50 years. This is legendary Napa Valley Cabernet. Get it if you can.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2018 MDV is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the best of the Maya blocks. Inky, rich and explosive, the MDV possesses breathtaking elegance and beauty. Crème de cassis, graphite, lavender, mint and espresso all build in a sumptuous, layered Cabernet Sauvignon that dazzles from start to finish. Sadly, there are just five barrels of this magical Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. The Dalla Valles only bottle the MDV in the very best years. Since its first release in 2013, it has become a clear reference point for Eastern Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon.
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon coming from the Maya vineyard, the 2018 MDV (standing for "Maya Dalla Valle") is only made in what are considered by the estate to be exceptional vintages. Deep garnet-purple colored, it bursts from the glass with bold notes of black and red currants, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and kirsch with touches of wild sage, tilled soil, black olives and truffles plus a waft of lilacs. The medium to full-bodied palate explodes with bright, crunchy black and red fruits, supported by ripe, grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long and savory.
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.