1995 Dalla Valle Maya
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Tasting notes
Tertiary pleasure, truffles and undergrowth, dried cranberries, orange peel, liqourice, a sweet strawberry feel, clings on in the glass, keeps unfolding strong liqourice on the palate. The autumnal fruits are wrapped in smoked earth, softening at this point, given lift by fresh acidities on the finish. Heidi Barrett's last vintage as winemaker, and this is a glimpse of a former Napa viticulture, where trillising was still California sprawl. Fully in its drinking window.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1995 Maya is a bit like the 1991 in that the aromas are maturing, while the fruit retains a very classic sense of Maya breadth. Sweet tobacco, cedar, incense, dried flowers and worn-in leather add nuance to the resonant finish. The 1995 has enough depth to drink well for at least another handful of years, but I wouldn't push my luck too much beyond that. At this point, it is pretty clear the tannins are always going to retain an element of firmness.
The terrific 1995 Maya is cut from the same mold as all the great Mayas of this decade. Its tannin may be even riper than in the 1994, but the wine is still an unevolved, massive, and unformed giant, although it is obvious that this will be another legendary effort. Do readers ever wonder why wines such as these are never made in 100,000 case lots? (release date, 10/98) (Tasted in barrel.) Tel. (707) 944-2676
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.