Dalla Valle Vineyards

Dalla Valle Vineyards in Napa Valley has been in existence since 1986 and is now run by founder Naoko together with her daughter and winemaker Maya.

Winemaker Andy Erickson and vineyard manager Edgar Alfaro complete the management team, which also receives oenological advice from renowned Bordeaux expert Michel Roland.

Over the past almost 40 years, the winery has developed into one of California's favourite family-run vineyards, known for its characterful and complex Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, which thrive on an area of 20 hectares.

The vineyard is located on the eastern slopes of Oakville. "While the vines get plenty of sun due to the predominantly westerly exposure, constant breezes from San Pablo Bay provide a cooling influence that helps the grapes retain their natural acidity. Dalla Valle's characteristically mineral-rich volcanic soils provide excellent drainage and just the right amount of stress for the vines to produce deeply complex and concentrated grapes." The vineyards have been cultivated organically since 2007 and even biodynamically since 2019.

Three wines are produced: The Collina Dalla Valle cuvée marks the start. Maya, named after the daughter, combines Cabernet Sauvignon from "Maya's Vineyard" with grapes from the best Cabernet Franc plots. MDV is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that is only produced in exceptionally good years.

© Images: Dalla Valle Vineyards