Dalla Valle 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon “Estate” Oakville, Napa Valley 99 Points

99 Points Jeb Dunnuck : “Based on 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc that was raised in 70% new oak, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon sports a deep purple hue as well as a captivating nose of ripe blueberries, pure cassis, spring flowers, and chocolate, with this beautiful sense of minerality. Deep, rich, and concentrated, with a full-bodied mouthfeel, it has flawless tannins and a great finish. I know all the attention here goes to the smaller production Maya release, but I continue to beat the drums regarding the incredible quality of the classic Cabernet Sauvignon from this brilliant estate.”

97 Points The WIne Independent: “Composed of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is opaque purple-black in color, bursting from the glass with vibrant blackberries, black raspberries, and black cherries scents, followed by suggestions of violets, chocolate box, and cardamom. The medium to full-bodied palate is bright and energetic, with fine-grained tannins and a lively backbone supporting the intense black fruit flavors, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note. Approachable now, it will benefit greatly from a couple of years in bottle should cellar for 25 years+.”

98 Points Robert Parker: “With a much higher proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon (91%, with 9% Cabernet Franc), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is less floral than the Maya but more obviously fruity and upfront. Bold black cherries and cassis lead the way, framed by gentle oak shadings of cedar and vanilla, backed by deep bass notes of rich loam and hints of tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, the tannins are wonderfully judged, supple and velvety in one sip, then fine and silky in the next, while the finish lingers effortlessly, even if it lacks some of the seamless elegance of its sister.”

Winemaker Notes: “The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon encapsulates the power and concentration of the site. Notes of dark chocolate, black cherries, pencil shavings and graphite intertwine with hints of toasted cardamom and fennel pollen. A cacophony of dark fruit comes together on the palate with its seamless and elegant fine-grained tannins. Ferric notes from their signature red rocky soils come through with an intermingling acidity that gives length on the finish, giving the drinker a full sensorial experience from start to finish.”