1996 Dalla Valle Maya
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Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 1996 is a small-scaled Maya. All the signatures are in place, but in miniature. Sweet tobacco, savory herbs, licorice, menthol and leather add complexity over time, but the 1996 remains a mid-weight wine with only modest concentration within the context of Maya. Lovely, expressive aromatics grace the finish. The 1996 is quite pretty and delicate, but it won't last forever. This is a Maya built on understatement and pure finesse.
The 1996 Maya is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Vivid, intense aromas of new saddle leather, plums, black currants, underbrush, and licorice are followed by a full-bodied, sensationally concentrated wine with sweet tannin, a deep, exceptionally pure and concentrated mid-palate, and an opulently-textured finish. It was surprisingly open-knit and delicious when tasted in October, but there is more tannin lurking beneath the surface. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2025. Tel. (707) 944-2676; Fax (707) 944-8411
The 1996 Maya is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Vivid, intense aromas of new saddle leather, plums, black currants, underbrush, and licorice are followed by a full-bodied, sensationally concentrated wine with sweet tannin, a deep, exceptionally pure and concentrated mid-palate, and an opulently-textured finish. It was surprisingly open-knit and delicious when tasted in October, but there is more tannin lurking beneath the surface. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2025. Jan 2000, www.robertparker.com
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.