Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon "Oakville Estate" 2016

Winemaker Notes

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon bottling from our estate fires on all cylinders. The general level of quality in the Valley was very high, and the depth and intensity of the fruit from our rugged hillside reached even higher heights. Our careful handling of the grapes, both in the vineyard and in the winery, paid off, as the Cabernet Sauvignon is dark and showy, with a degree of aromatic complexity and effusiveness that is the hallmark of our unique terroir. Immediately upon decanting, the room is filled with fruit and floral aromas—fresh-cut cherries, blackberries, blueberry pie, and orange blossom—along with earthier elements of dark roast coffee, wet slate, and underbrush. On the palate the wine is powerful, long, and tightly woven, delivering waves of flavor and texture that linger for nearly a full minute. Given its power and aging potential, it is remarkable that this wine is so utterly enjoyable straight from the bottle in it youth. It should age for decades to come.

97 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon bottling from our estate fires on all cylinders. The general level of quality in the Valley was very high, and the depth and intensity of the fruit from our rugged hillside reached even higher heights. Our careful handling of the grapes, both in the vineyard and in the winery, paid off, as the Cabernet Sauvignon is dark and showy, with a degree of aromatic complexity and effusiveness that is the hallmark of our unique terroir. Immediately upon decanting, the room is filled with fruit and floral aromas—fresh-cut cherries, blackberries, blueberry pie, and orange blossom—along with earthier elements of dark roast coffee, wet slate, and underbrush. On the palate the wine is powerful, long, and tightly woven, delivering waves of flavor and texture that linger for nearly a full minute. Given its power and aging potential, it is remarkable that this wine is so utterly enjoyable straight from the bottle in it youth. It should age for decades to come.

95 Points - Wine Spectator

A broad, ripe and showy style, with boysenberry, dark plum and black Mission fig fruit flavors that glide through, carried by creamy, polished structure. Light mocha, anise and fresh humus hints peek through on the finish, adding range. A big red, with a lovely feel. Best from 2020 through 2032.

93 Points - James Suckling

A ripe and layered red with lots of delicious dark-berry and chocolate character. Medium to full body and a long finish. Opulence with some reserve. Drink in 2020.